POLICE are stepping up their efforts to target burglaries after a spate of raids in one North Yorkshire town.

Incidents of burglary across the Easingwold area have risen over recent months, but the police are meeting the challenge head on.

They are launching high-visibility patrols in hot-spot areas and mobile patrols will be performing stop-checks on vehicles.

Sgt John Clayton said: "The local Safer Neighbourhood Team will be working with the CID , Road Policing Group and Neigbourhood Watch to combine our efforts and tackle this problem.

"Community support officers will be giving information to residents about the best way to protect their homes and about being extra-vigilant.

"Simple crime prevention measures will reduce crime, creating a safer environment and improving the quality of life for us all."

He added: "It is vital that we take the fear of crime to those who commit it."

All residents are also being reminded to be extra vigilant in securing their properties and possessions.