POLICE in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough have issued a warning to the public after a rise in house break-ins over recent weeks.

They said a key reason has been insecure homes and that, in some cases, residents returning from night shifts failed to lock their front doors as they slept during the day.

Police have also attended incidents where house dwellers have left ladders conveniently placed for burglars near open windows.

Acting Detective Sergeant Steve Jermy, of Hartlepool CID, said: "I am greatly concerned at the apparent carelessness of some householders, who are practically inviting burglars into their homes.

"You wouldn't dream of leaving your front door unlocked when you turn in for the night, so just because you're sleeping in the day, take the same precautions.

"In the past three days, we've had five insecure break-ins, four of which were via unlocked doors and one via an open window."

He reminded people to keep Christmas presents out of sight, both in the car or in the home, to deter opportunist thieves.