A BURGLAR tried to smash his way into a house with an axe found in the back garden.

He first tried the doorbell of the house, in Neville Shaw, Basildon. He then went round the back, picked up an axe which was lying on the ground, and hacked at the back door. The intruder left empty-handed at 9.30am on Friday.

Det Sgt Colin Norton of Basildon CID said: “It is important not to leave tools outside, or in sheds. Most burglars don’t carry tools. They use what they find, to try to force their way in.

“If anyone saw a man in the area acting suspiciously or if he knocked at your door previously, please call us.”

Witnesses are asked to call Basildon CID, on 0300 3334444