There has been an increase in the number of parcel thefts being reported.

Police are warning that a number of parcels have reportedly been stolen from people’s doorsteps in the Blandford area when left by delivery drivers.

Officers are now urging people to ask their delivery drivers to leave any parcels in a safe place.

A spokesperson for North Dorset Police said: “There have been reports of parcels being stolen from the doorstep when left by delivery drivers in the Blandford area.

“Please ensure you ask delivery drivers to leave parcels somewhere safe like in a parcel security box or with a trusted neighbour.

“Alternatively, when ordering items online state any delivery instructions for the delivery driver to follow.”