A DISTRAUGHT grandfather says he cannot sleep at night after being burgled twice in two weeks.

Chris Stables' home in Wandle Road, Waddon, was ransacked last Wednesday.

WORRIED: Chris Stables cannot sleep at night after being burgled twice in two weeks

The raid came eight days after his property was trashed by a burglar who then stole his £106,000 Mercedes.

In the latest burglary, the thief made off with a £4,000 gold-plated Parker pen, which Mr Stables wanted to pass on to his grandson on his 18th birthday.

A camera, which contained photos of his family and his dog Ralph, who died in October last year, was also taken.

"Croydon has really sunk to a low level in the 15 years I've lived here," Mr Stables said.

"To be burgled twice in two weeks is unheard of. I don't know where to go from here. I can't sleep. I'm in a terrible state.

"Short of putting bars on my windows, which would make me feel like a prisoner in my own home, what am I supposed to do?"

Following the two burglaries on 57-year-old Mr Stables' home, Detective Sergeant Mark Ford warned residents to secure their homes against opportunist thieves.

He said: "A property that presents itself as unoccupied and insecure is far more likely to be targeted than one which is properly secured.

"There are steps you can take to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of burglary.

"These include being mindful of leaving windows and doors open, and asking a family member to check up on your property if you go away on holiday."

Stan Buccanan, 32, of Dingwall Road, Croydon, has been charged with burglary and taking a motor vehicle without the owner's consent in connection with the break-in on July 6.

He appeared at Croydon Magistrates' Court on July 15. He did not enter a plea, and was remanded in custody to appear back at the same court on August 3.

Delroy Dixon, of Woodcote Road, Wallington, has been charged with burglary in connection with the second incident, on July 14.

He appeared before Camberwell Green Magistrates' Court on Monday and, after not entering a plea, was remanded in custody. He is due to appear again at Croydon Crown Court on July 27.