Police say security lighting could deter would-be burglars

Cleveland Police say winter months always see a rise in break-ins as opportunist thieves take advantage of the cover of darkness.

Crime prevention experts are touring estates to raise awareness.

Leaflets will be delivered to homes, which are obviously empty and in darkness, with suggestions for cutting the risk by installing lights.

Cleveland crime prevention officer, Gerry McBride said: "If more people switch on to security and light up their homes it will have a dramatic effect, particularly on tea-time break-ins.

"We will be enlisting the help of police community support officers and neighbourhood wardens to help protect homes deemed most at risk as the darker nights arrive."

The leaflets will have a tear-off portion entitling the bearer to obtain a discount on timer switches and security fittings.