HOMEOWNERS are being urged to tighten up security to stop a sudden spate of burglaries in an area used to seeing crime figures fall.

Burglaries in the former Wear Valley area have reduced during each of the last three years but in recent weeks there have been several reported in the Crook and Willington areas. In the latest spate, all the burgled houses were an easy target because the doors were unlocked.

The Home Office has forecast a rise in acquisitive crime because of the recession and more people being unemployed.

Community Safety Manager, Elaine Baker, said: "In the current climate we all need to be a bit more careful in how we protect our homes.

"It always pays to keep your doors locked, even when you are in the house or the garden. Fit locks and window restrictors.

"Burglars are by nature lazy and go for an easy win - so ensure your home is as secure as it can be."

For advice on home security, contact PC Don Luke, crime prevention officer at Bishop Auckland Police Station on 0345-6060365.