BURGLARS and car thieves in Langbaurgh are being targeted in an operation designed to disrupt criminal activity in the run-up to Christmas.

Operation Focus, backed by a government grant, includes an increase in police patrols after dark, with extra attention paid to known offenders in areas of high crime.

The operation starts today and will last for several weeks.

Detective Inspector Colin Galloway, of Langbaurgh police, said: "Focus will be intelligence-led with specialist briefing officers, directing patrols to areas where there are problems and where results will be achieved.

"We know who the criminals are and will be closely monitoring their activities."

Det Insp Galloway said the darkness arriving earlier in the run-up to Christmas was always a prime time for criminals.

He warned residents that unoccupied houses could be spotted if no lights were left on and that, despite repeated warnings, people still left valuables on show in cars.

He said: "We have been given this grant from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and we intend to make good use of the money.

"Our festive message to criminals is simple: there is no goodwill for them on our account.

"These people cause upset and misery and we are going to ensure that the run up to Christmas for them will be far from merry."