HOUSEHOLDERS are being warned to check their home security following a spate of lock snapping burglaries.

Durham police issued the warning following break-ins in the south of the county, when thieves managed to snap the cylinder of the lock by applying pressure to gain access to the property using the broken mechanism.

To prevent it happening home owners should check existing locks are up to standard or upgrade them to a break-secure cylinder.

An approved locksmith can offer advice and the recommended locals, of the TS007 standard, can be purchased from DIY stores.

For details or advice neighbourhood police teams can be contacted on 101.