THREE cars were stolen from the Leigh area after burglars took the keys from the homes of the owners.

In each of the break-ins yesterday, the thieves forced their way through the front or rear doors of the homes and then stole the keys -- left nearby -- for the vehicles.

Today homeowners in the Leigh and Bolton areas where warned to be on their guard.

Police have revealed that the first incident happened shortly after midnight when a pale blue Vauxhall Astra, reg F858 EGG, was taken from Carr Bank Street, Atherton, after a home was broken into.

Then, just after 4am, a Rover 620I, reg M696 KPG was also stolen from Turnberry Close, Astley. It was recovered at about 4.30am on Pennine Lane, Lowton.

Shortly after 5am, an MG ZT, registration MD51 EER, was taken from outside a house in Carr Street, Leigh. The vehicle was also later recovered after its tracking device was activated.

Other similar thefts have been reported throughout Greater Manchester over recent weeks.

Det Sgt Bill Nelson, of the Leigh Operational Policing Unit, said: "People should be extra careful where they leave their keys.

"It is advisable not to leave them on display as it is an invitation for thieves. These people can be in and out of your house within seconds causing a lot of upset and inconvenience."

Anyone who witnessed any of these incidents is asked to contact Leigh CID on 0161 856 7352 or Crimestoppers on free phone 0800 555 111.