Downton attempted burglary: man concerned for his family

Dominic Longley, 53, was shocked to discover that two people attempted to break into his garage with a crowbar.

He has been living in his Downton home, at Wick Lane, with his wife and 16-year-old son for 10 years but told the Journal he's noticed crime in the area has been "getting worse".

Dominic's son saw the damaged garage door the next morning and CCTV footage showed masked burglars "skulking" around the house at around 2.30am on December 24.

Scaffolding had been installed on the house and Dominic believes the intruders came in through an unsecured gate.

Dominic is now on high alert. (Image: Dominic Longley)

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: "We responded to an attempted break-in in Wick Road, Downton on Christmas Eve around 3.30am.

"Two people, one much smaller than the other, were seen on CCTV trying to break into a garage.

"They were both wearing hoods and face coverings."

Describing the incident as "dangerous, upsetting and depressing", Dominic said: "It makes me concerned and the general consensus is that if you're not careful, things will get taken.

"I feel very concerned for the welfare of my family. Most residents feel it is a worsening problem."

Watch the two men captured on CCTV

Nothing was stolen but Dominic said there was "a huge amount of damage" to his garage door from the crowbar.

Read more: Cash and food theft leads Salisbury Police to appeal for witnesses

Since the incident, Dominic has installed more CCTV cameras and lights in addition to having a more careful checking routine.

He has dealt with anti-social behavior in Downton before but this was the first attempted break-in of his home.

Police are asking anyone who can help with enquiries to contact 101 quoting reference number 54220134541