Thieves targeted three homes over the space of a few days.

The first incident happened at a home on Fontains Walk sometime overnight from November 2 to November 3, from which a Volkswagen R32 Coupe and a Mercedes Benz CLK 500 were stolen, which remain outstanding.

The second happened at about 3.10am on November 5, during which thieves attempted to burgle a home on Chandler Way but were disturbed.

The final incident happened at about 5.55am on November 5, during which thieves were again disturbed trying to burgle a home on Southwell Close.

Officers have now issued a warning to residents to make sure they take the correct steps to keep their homes secure.

Despite the recent blip, police say burglaries in Leigh and Wigan continue to fall.

There were 35 fewer incidents during the period September 28 to October 25 , compared to the previous four weeks, a significant drop of 32 per cent.

Figures also show that between April 1 and October 25, there were 147 fewer incidents compared to the same period last year, a reduction of almost 16 per cent.

Insp Ian Kennedy said: "In the run-up to the festive period when families are starting to buy presents for loved ones, it is normally an ideal time for burglars to strike.

"Thanks to Operation Storm we have seen a significant drop in the number of burglaries in Wigan and Greater Manchester Police is committed to bringing these sorts of career criminals to justice.

"We are now employing a number of specialist, forensic techniques to take these people off the streets and I want to assure residents that tackling burglary is something the Force, and the Wigan division, sees as priority.

"By following some simple but effective safety tips, residents can help us in our aim.

"It is important to remember that when we talk about a reduction in incidents, what were actually talking about is fewer victims of crime - real people in other words.

"Burglary is a crime that can have a devastating impact on victims, and we are determined to keep targeting offenders to get them off the streets. I would urge the public to continue to call us with information on 0161 872 5050, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."