Operation Lancelot is an example of agencies and organisations working together to achieve the same result.

Under the umbrella of the Sedgefield Partnership, members of the Burglary Action Group are working together to reduce burglaries and combat the fear it generates.

The group includes representatives from the police, county and borough council, Neighbourhood Watch, youth offending teams, probation, victim support, 3 Rivers Housing Association, Diversity Incorporating Safer Communities and The Northern Echo.

Detective Chief Inspector Colin Pearson, who chairs the action team, said: "This is the first year that a true partnership approach in relation to tackling this crime has taken place. Everyone working together can pool their resources and achieve positive results and the enthusiasm shown has been very positive.

"There has been a steady reduction in the amount of homes broken into in the borough, but it is vitally important that there is not an ounce of complacency shown and we continue working to further reduce this crime."