Police in Kenilworth are warning youngsters to stay away from disused and derelict buildings following a series of break-ins.

Kenilworth and Warwick Rural Police said a number of reports have been made of teenagers breaking into to empty buildings and in some places vandalising them.

"We don't expect the younger residents of Kenilworth and their friends to know much about the dangers of asbestos, or to be expert building inspectors," a force statement said.

"That's why we're asking parents and carers across the town for a favour. Can you have a chat with your child(ren) to remind them to stay away from disused/derelict buildings.

"We're getting reports of disused buildings being broken into and used as hangout spots and - in some cases - being trashed.

"We're aware that hanging around in 'spooky' buildings and smashing things up might be an exciting prospect for some of our town's younger residents - but inhaling asbestos fibres or being injured by debris isn't that fun.

"Nor are the criminal consequences that people engaging in this behaviour might face."