POLICE in Darlington are urging people to tighten up their home security during the winter months.

The annual Winter Nights campaign aims to reduce house burglaries as the nights get darker.

Householders are being advised to leave lights on, or use light timers if they are away, as well as securing doors and windows.

Sergeant Louise Guest said: “A third of house burglaries are at premises which are vulnerable, or where a door or window has been left unlocked."

Darlington Neighbourhood Watch Association is offering home security kits which include a light timer, window alarm, autodialler, simulated TV and UV marker pen for £5 a week to hire or £35 to buy.

For more information call 01325-346832.