A NUMBER of Wee County homes were targeted by heartless thieves over the Easter holiday weekend.

Properties in Dollar and Coalsnaughton were raided in what police are treating as a series of housebreakings.

The culprits took advantage of those which had travelled to be with their families in other parts of the country.

They ransacked the homes, helping themselves to a quantity of valuables at some point over the long weekend.

The first incident occurred on Carmichael Place in Coalsnaughton, with the others reported at Back Road and Strathdevon Place, both Dollar.

Officers are asking members of the public to come forward with any information which may help their investigation.

Sightings of a white "combo-style" van in the areas are also welcomed by investigators.

Inspector Charlie Mitchell from Alloa Police Station said: "We are investigating a number of housebreakings, which occurred in Dollar and Coalsnaughton between Monday, April 2 and Tuesday, April 3, and are treating these offences as linked.

"Anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity within Strathdevon Place, Back Road, Harviestoun Road and Carmichael Place during these days is asked to come forward.

"In particular, we are keen to trace a white combo-style van, which was seen in these areas around the times of the incidents. If you can help us trace this vehicle, please contact police immediately.

"Tackling housebreaking is one of our top priorities and the public have a vital role to play in deterring acquisitive crime by taking appropriate security measures around their homes and businesses.

"Lots of useful advice and information on crime prevention can be found on our website at www.scotland.police.uk."

Anyone with any information about the break-ins can contact Alloa Police Office on 101.

Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.