A manhunt has been launched as police investigate three burglaries reported on the same evening in Westcliff which are believed to be linked.

Detectives are investigating the three incidents which took place in Hobleythick Lane, Colemans Avenue and Dulverton Avenue, each of which were reported on Wednesday and took place from about 6.25pm onwards.

During the incident in Colemans Avenue, car keys were taken. In Dulverton Avenue, cash was taken and whilst entry was clearly attempted in Hobleythick Lane, officers do not believe anything was taken.

At this stage, police believe one suspect is connected to each of the incidents and are working quickly to identify that person.

Detective Inspector Marcus Dodd said: “At this stage, we are treating each of these incidents as linked and we’re working quickly to identify the person responsible.

“Burglary is among the most violating of crimes and we are determined to bring perpetrators to justice.

“I would also urge residents to remain vigilant and consider any appropriate security measures for their homes, especially as we enter the pre-Christmas period.”

Anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour or has doorbell footage of the streets from 6.25pm onwards on Wednesday should get in touch.

Submit a report on the Essex Police website or by using the force's online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am and 9pm.

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about the force's website reporting services.

Alternatively, call police on 101.

Crime reference 42/204316/23 refers to the Colemans Avenue incident.

Crime reference 42/204394/23 refers to the Hobleythick Lane incident.

Crime reference 42/204411/23 refers to the Dulverton Avenue incident.