OFFICERS investigating a spate of more than 30 burglaries have released images of the masked culprits, who have been caught on CCTV wearing distinctive red gloves.

Police have linked the raids across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, including in Ross-on-Wye and Much Marcle, and have released CCTV stills with an appeal for information.

Detective Inspector Dave Knight said: “We do not underestimate the impact that burglaries have on victims. The crime is intrusive and we know can leave homeowners feeling unsafe.

“We want to offer assurance, to victims and our communities, that a thorough investigation is taking place into the series of burglaries and we are not slowing down in our efforts to apprehend the offenders.

“Collating CCTV images is one of several lines of enquiries being carried out, along with house-to-house enquiries and liaising with our neighbouring forces.

“We believe that someone will know who the offenders are and we encourage those people to come forward and speak to us.”

Meanwhile, police in Ross and Ledbury carrying out "proactive patrols" in relation to the burglaries have also seized an untaxed Audi car driven by an unlicensed and uninsured driver.

"A full house, and the vehicle was subsequently seized," a police spokesperson said.

If you have any information which might help with police enquiries, can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org or call West Mercia Police on 101.