BURGLARS are having a field day locally because of poor home security.

Now Greater Manchester Police's Leigh sub division has introduced a revised burglary-reduction strategy and is urging residents to make things more difficult for thieves.

It has been introduced as a result of a rise in the number of house burglaries in the past six months, despite high-profile initiatives which have led to the arrests of a number of thieves.

Insp Bill Dyke, of the sub division operational policing unit, said: "We intend to attack this problem in a number of different ways. We have had a lot of success recently targeting the cowards who commit these type of offences -- and we will continue to do so.

"One of our biggest problems, however, is that people don't seem to want to help themselves. I can't believe the number of burglaries that are committed because doors and windows are left unsecure. I would appeal to everyone, don't make it easy for these thieves to target you.

"Fit good-quality locks to windows and doors and make sure you use them at all times, even when you are at home. When you are not in, always try to make your home looks occupied using electronic timers on lighting."

For further security advice, contact Ian Halliwell, the sub-divisional crime reduction advisor, on 0161 856 7262.

l Homewatch schemes unite communities in the fight against crime and more details are available from Paula Wooding on 0161 856 7212.