A HOUSEHOLDER has been told by police to pull down anti-thief mesh – in case a would-be burglar gets injured.

Shed and allotment break-ins are rife in the Westerham area but gardeners trying to protect their property are frustrated after being told they could be sued.

Thomas Cooper, of Paynesfield Road, Tatsfield, said: "I have three sheds and had two break-ins in the past four years.

"I reinforced my shed windows with wire mesh, but was told by the police I had to be very careful because thieves can actually sue you if they get hurt.

"I mean, what are you meant to do? Let them take your stuff?

"It is ridiculous that the law protects them even though they are breaking it."

People in Westerham, Brasted, Sundridge, Goathurst Common, Biggin Hill and Titsey say shed and allotment thefts are widespread.

Last week we reported how a shed was stolen from an allotment.

Another outhouse has also been taken from an allotment in Titsey, although plot-holders managed to keep hold of the roof.

Dave Bishop, who owns four sheds in The Square, Tatsfield, has spoken out, after being contacted by a number of villagers.

He keeps electrical equipment, carrying up to 30,000 volts, in one of his outhouses.

"It could be potentially dangerous for anyone that broke in. Not for me, because I know where the on and off switch is," he said. "But someone breaking in could be killed.

"To be honest, I don't even think I would be sorry. I think it would be plain stupidity on their part and it would be perfectly justified.

"The law is so stupid, and you never know what decision judges are going to make. It is unbelievable!

"People do get fed-up with these people trying to help themselves to things which you have worked hard to gather together during past years."

He added: "I don't blame the police – they are overstretched as it is and shed thefts are not a priority.

"But I think we have a right to protect our property.

"If a few of us take turns doing shifts, just walking around the village with torches, thieves will know there are people around."

Crime reduction officer for Tandridge PC John Lee said: "We are constantly advising homeowners to protect their property and the contents of their shed or garage, however, a commonsense approach needs to be taken.

"To properly secure your sheds, Surrey Police strongly advises people to invest in items such as good-quality locks and bolts, and not to resort to homemade devices, as this could cause injury."