POLICE are urging homeowners to lock up at night after a spate of burglaries in a market town.

Persistent offenders are plaguing residents of Thirsk who are failing to lock all their doors and windows at night, the town council was told.

Inspector Val Broadley said police had mounted several operations in recent months, leading to the arrests of a number of youths.

She said it was hoped that this would put a stop to the criminal activity, although one youth has been arrested nine times this year and others several times.

Foot patrols have been increased to keep an eye on youngsters during the summer holidays, but Insp Broadley said some of the £1m earmarked for regeneration projects in Thirsk should be used to provide new facilities for youngsters.