FRONT door security chains have stopped burglars breaking in to two Laindon homes.

Police are urging residents to install the chains following two attempted break-ins on April 22.

Thieves tried to break in to a house in Markhams Chase at about 2.20am.

About an hour later, at 3.15am, they tried to burgle a house in Nursery Gardens.

In both incidents the victims were woken-up and the would-be thieves disturbed.

Angie Torrance, station sergeant at Basildon Police Station, said: "The person responsible for these offences was unsuccessful due to the occupants use of security door chains.

"This simple crime prevention measure has proved to be effective in stopping this offender in their tracks."