POLICE are urging communities to protect themselves from criminals as the nights begin to draw in.

Superintendent Kerrin Smith, of the Durham Constabulary’s Neighbourhood Command, said the number of instances of criminal damage usually rises during November and December.

She said: “A combination of darker nights, when it isn’t too cold yet and people stay indoors, Halloween and Bonfire Night events, leads to more criminality and anti-social behaviour.

“We are asking for residents to continue being supportive to the force’s Respect your Street campaign by reporting activity which has the potential to result in criminal damage.”

Police have had reports that fireworks are being sold illegally through a number of outlets and are working with the council, fire service and trading standards to tackle the problem.

Superintendent Smith added: “Those who sell such fireworks are irresponsible and may put your child at risk.

“We want to ensure this type of offence is tackled properly before any of our children are seriously hurt. If you have any inkling of this going on please contact police on Tel 101 and we will do the rest to address the problem.”