Warning as mystery man seen 'marking' properties with red ribbons around Chesterfield

Police have sounded a warning to Chesterfield residents and urged them to check their homes are secure after a man was spotted ‘marking’ properties with red ribbon in one area of the town.

Officers said that the male had been seen walking around Grassmoor holding a bucket, marking properties with red ribbons on gates and leaving bright blue golf balls in people’s gardens.

The man has been spotted 'marking' properties in Chesterfield with red ribbbons and blue golf balls.

placeholder image — The man has been spotted 'marking' properties in Chesterfield with red ribbbons and blue golf balls.

A spokesperson for Homewood, Grassmoor, Calow and Arkwright Police SNT said: “Please check around your properties and remove these markings, and if anyone sees this male or has good photo or video evidence on their CCTV cameras or door bells, please call this in on 101.

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The red ribbons look like this and have been tied on peoples' gates.

“Please make sure your properties are locked, secure and stay safe.”

If you have any pictures or footage of the man, or want to report a sighting, call Derbyshire Police on 101.

You can also call Crimestoppers, free and anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.