Local residents have been reporting an increase in low level crime, such as attempts to enter vehicles on social media.

On Monday, January 9th several residents in different areas reported on social media that a group of men were seen trying to gain access to cars in the Brampton Road, Three Crosses and the Oaklands area of Ross-on-Wye at approximately 3am. The police have received one report of three men seen to be trying car door handles in Brampton Road. The police confirmed that there was no report of anything stolen.

If you saw anything suspicious in the early hours of January 9th call 101 and quote incident number OIS 607S 090117. One resident of Cawdor also posted a warning that a car radio had been stolen from their vehicle.

A police spokesman told the Ross Gazette that they are investigating the number of thefts from cars, or of cars, in Ross to see if there has been an increase in this type of offence. He said there has been a large number reported recently but not a higher level than previous years.

He added that residents should take care to remove any valuables from vehicles, especially money, even if it is only a small amount. And he recommended that power tools should be removed from vehicles as thieves seem to be looking for them. He also asked if anyone hears a car alarm they should contact the police on 101 in case it is a result of someone trying to gain entry to a vehicle.

On the same night, at about 4am a break-in was reported at a Ross-on-Wye beauty salon.

Sharon Neville, owner of Perfect Measure told the Ross Gazette how gutted and angry she is following the break-in at her salon in New Street.

Sharon said that the police were alerted at about 4am on Monday, January 9th by a neighbour who heard a disturbance and she then went to the premises.

She said it was a huge shock to see that the main door had been smashed, the till had been taken as well as cash which Sharon’s niece had raised for charity prior to Christmas. Charity collecting boxes were also taken and the coin box for the sun shower was smashed.

Sharon said:?“At first I was gutted at the mess and disruption to my business. Now I am angry. It is alright to say I am insured but my premiums will go up and the business has been disrupted. I cannot use the sunshower for a few days.”

The incident has been reported to the police and enquiries are ongoing. Forensic officers were at the salon on Tuesday morning.

Police officers are keen to speak to people who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information should call West Mercia Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 quoting incident number 051S of January 9th.