Enderby residents are reminded that the clocks go back this Sunday (October 25) and Leicestershire Police are saying people need to ‘lock up and light up.’

The Force’s website reports that analysis of five years of burglary data shows burglaries increase during October, November and December during the darker winter months.

As a result Leicestershire Police launched its Darker Nights campaign on Monday 12 October. So far, 19 people have been arrested for burglary related offences and six warrants have been carried out.

The campaign is part of Operation Tiger which uses current intelligence to target offenders in hot spot areas and sees enhanced operational activity being delivered across all eight Neighbourhood Policing Areas.

Detective Chief Inspector Rich Ward, who is leading on the campaign, said:

“In previous years we have seen a slight increase in burglaries after the clocks go back. The nights get darker, making it easier for burglars to move around unseen.

“We are asking people to take a few simple steps that may prevent them from becoming a victim of burglary. Investing in outdoor security lighting and a light timer are inexpensive ways to deter burglars and keep your home and possessions safe. A house in darkness can really stand out as an attractive target to an opportunist thief. Remember to check your door and window locks as a large number of burglaries are facilitated by ineffective locks or people leaving doors, windows, garages or sheds unsecured.

“Since we launched the campaign 10 days ago we have already made 19 arrests and issued six warrants relating to burglary offences which is really pleasing but we need members of the public to help us by keeping their property safe and reporting any suspicious activity to us immediately.”