PEOPLE in Wyre Forest are being given the chance to get garden tools and other valuables property coded free of charge.

A property-marking day is being held on Thursday, May 10, in Kidderminster, when thermal property marking labels will be issued along with advice on garden and home security.

Batches of specially coded labels which can be stuck to lawn mowers, electrical tools and other valuable items will be available.

Wyre Forest crime risk manager PC Ian White said: "When the gardening season is in full swing, as it is now, we usually see an increase in shed burglaries and thefts from gardens, so it is important that people take whatever precautions they can to avoid being targeted and make it as difficult as possible for thieves.

"If your property is recovered after being stolen then having it coded enables us to identify where it comes from."

The stickers will be issued free of charge, but people are asked to bring proof of address, such as a utility bill, to get their hands in them.

The event will be held at Focus Do It All in Spennels Valley Road between 10am and 4pm. Officers will also be handing out a new leaflet called Tips to Nip Garden Crime in the Bud, which highlights how people can protect their outdoor property.