Despite the rise, the latest crime statistics released on Tuesday, show that overall crime has fallen.

House burglary, car crime and robbery have all seen falls.

Violent offences rose from 475 offences to 761, but the rise has been attributed to changes in the recording of incidents.

It is a difficult time of year because the criminals will take every opportunity they can. Detective Chief Superintendent John Kelly

The latest figures show break-ins fell by almost 15% compared to the same month last year.

Robberies were down by more than a fifth and car crime was down by 15%.

Detective Chief Superintendent John Kelly, said although the figures show an improvement, people still have to be vigilant.

He said: "A lot of crime prevention techniques we push at this time of year [winter nights] because I am quite sure some members of the public become complacent.

"They must make sure that sheds and garages are alarmed if possible and anything valuable is stored elsewhere.

"It is a difficult time of year because the criminals will take every opportunity they can.

"If you do not have security lights and other crime prevention techniques they will break into your garage or shed."