Officer are urging homeowners to make sure they have adequate home security after the break-ins, in which items including cash, jewellery and antiques were stolen.

Two of the burglaries took place in Welford, two in West Haddon, one in Guilsborough, one in Crick and one in Braunston.

The first took place between 5pm on Monday and 12.20pm on Wednesday in Atterbury Close, West Haddon.

The next was in Welton Road, Braunston, between 9am on Tuesday and 9am on Wednesday.

The other burglaries were between 9am on Tuesday and 10.30pm on Wednesday in Wakefield Road, Welford; between 10.30pm on Tuesday and 3am on Wednesday in High Street, Guilsborough; between 12.30am and 3am on Wednesday in Thomas Close, Crick; at 2.20am on Wednesday in Field Close, West Haddon, and at 5.45am on Wednesday in West Street, Welford.

Inspector Jeff Winfield, from Operation Renegade, the dedicated robbery and burglary team in Northamptonshire West, said: "Latest statistics show offences such as burglary are very much on the decrease in these parts of Northamptonshire and our dedicated team is working hard to trace those responsible.

"We would like to speak to anyone in any of these villages who has seen anyone acting suspiciously in these areas over the last week. They can contact us on 08453 700 700 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"I would also like to remind people to make sure they have security measures in place in their homes to help put off burglars. In these cases the offenders broke into the homes but often offenders gain access to properties that have been left insecure."

The top home security tips include:

- Lock up - always keep your doors and windows closed, even when you are at home
- Lighting – make good use of security lighting, both inside and outside your home. Keep your curtains closed at night.
- Keys and valuables – when not in use, put house keys, car keys and other valuables somewhere they cannot be seen.
- Security marking – mark your valuables with your postcode and register your mobile phone and other items of value at www.immobilise.com.
- Vehicles – remove all property from your vehicle when you are leaving it unattended. Keep your car in a secure garage or locked on the driveway of your home. If you park outside, leave your car in a well-lit area and make sure it is locked.