HOUSEHOLDERS are being urged to take extra care when securing their homes following a number of opportunistic burglaries.

Darlington police said in nine of the last 35 burglaries that took place in the town, criminals broke in via unsecured doors.

A post on the Darlington Neighbourhood Police Teams Facebook page said this meant that an opportunistic thief may try, on average, just four properties before finding a door that is unlocked.

The warning comes just weeks after CCTV footage was released showing a man trying doors on various streets around the town and entering houses which have been left unlocked.

The man struck in the early hours of the morning and carried some leaflets as a cover up.

Sergeant Louise Guest urged people to lock their doors and windows, even if they are at home, and to use light timer switches when the property is empty.

"We still live in a relatively safe town but the odd opportunistic crime does take place and we shouldn't give these criminals a chance by not doing basic crime prevention," she said.

"It is about not giving criminals the chance. If you were a criminal and were walking along the street and three out of ten houses were in darkness, which ones would you go for?"

People are also being reminded to leave car keys out of sight, following a number of two in one burglaries, where thieves break into homes and steal car keys and vehicles.

Sgt Guest added: "If people notice something suspicious do not hesitate to ring us."

Sandra Phipps, chairwoman of Darlington Neighbourhood Watch Association, urged people to join the association and take advantage of their crime prevention advice.

"We have got to take responsibility for ourselves and our property - it is about keeping yourself safe," she said.

"It is very different nowadays and people don't think it is going to happen to them.

"Through Neighbourhood Watch people will have access to a range of home security items, like shed alarms and SmartWater, at reduced prices.

"It is all about community and looking out for your neighbours."

For information on crime prevention or to join Darlington Neighbourhood Watch Association, call the Safer Neighbourhood Unit on 01325-406785 or email djsnu@durham.pnn.police.uk

To report any suspicious activity call police on 101.