Police advice

Police say: "Unfortunately, every year sees a spate of early evening burglaries associated with the clocks going back.

"Please help us to help you by taking the steps outlined below."

'¢Use an automatic time switch on an indoor light, either in a room that cannot be peered into from the road, or upstairs. Regularly change the timing on the switch.

'¢Put a time switch on a radio that has been tuned into a chat show. Once again this will give the impression that the house is occupied.

'¢Fit security lighting, either dusk to dawn energy efficient lighting that will come on automatically as dusk sets in, or brighter passive infrared activated lighting drawing attention to movement.

'¢Ensure that gates or access routes to the rear of your premises are locked and secure. Don't forget to lock your sheds as insecure tools can be used to gain access to the house. Trim overgrown plants '“ don't give burglars a hiding place.

'¢Secure windows, particularly those on the ground floor and above flat roof areas.

'¢Ensure that adequate door locks are fitted and that all keys, (including car keys), are kept out of sight / reach of the letterbox.

'¢Give thought to property marking your valuables by using your postcode and house number. Permanent UV marker pens are ideal for this and can be easily purchased at minimum cost.

'¢If not already installed, give thought to purchasing an intruder alarm. Alarms are an effective deterrent against burglars and may not cost as much as you think. If you have access to the Internet then visit the 'Buy With Confidence' website which is set up by the local Trading Standards. Here, under 'Security', you will find a list of approved companies who will be more than happy to talk through your requirements on a no obligation basis.

'¢Keep yourselves safe. Do not open the door to unexpected callers. Use a door chain if you have one and make sure that you check ID. If in doubt, ring through to the relevant company to ensure that they are official. Speak to the utility companies about setting up a password scheme.

'¢Report anything suspicious to us. Please ring 999 if you think a crime is about to be committed or for anything less serious give us a ring on the local number 0845 60 70 999.