A COMMUNITY has expressed alarm over a spate of break-ins and attempted break-ins.

Residents in Thatto Heath contacted the Star following last week’s front-page report about the burglary of 93-year-old Evelyn Barrow, whose home was targeted by thieves as she lay in hospital recovering from a road accident.

But police say the spike in the crime has fallen dramatically after officers made three arrests.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said there were 21 burglaries in Thatto Heath between January and February 20, 2015. That figure included incidents involving homes, sheds and outbuildings.

Since February 20, there have been three reports of burglaries.

Patrols have been increased in the area, including both uniformed and plain clothes officers.

Neighbourhood Inspector Elaine Collins, said: “We understand the devastating impact domestic burglaries can have and I want to take this opportunity to reassure the community in Thatto Heath that we are determined to do everything we can to reduce the problem and bring those responsible to justice.

“Police Community Support Officers have also been visiting local people to provide reassurance.”

Concerns residents had been airing their reactions to the increase in break-ins on social media site Facebook.

An 18-year-old man and two youths, aged 16 and 15, were arrested in the middle of February in connection with burglary offences and have since been released on bail, pending further enquiries.