POLICE have reported a drop in thefts from cars in Durham and Chester-le-Street.
In the past two weeks, police say there have been 11 thefts from cars - down from 30 the previous fortnight.
Detective Sergeant Max Newby said the reduction was down to the work of police and the help of the public.
He said there has also been a slight cut in house burglaries over the same two weeks, which he attributed to an initiative in County Durham called Operation Lacho.
The initiative was launched this month and is designed to raise awareness of sneak-in burglaries and give crime prevention advice to people.
Det Sgt Newby said: "Sneak in burglaries are often a problem at this time of year. But this reduction is good news.
"Nevertheless, we would still urge householders to get in touch with their local community safety department for advice on vehicle and home security or information on Neighbourhood Watch schemes."
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