A NEIGHBOURHOOD watch scheme has launched a leafleting campaign to educate people about protecting their property.

The drive by Chester-le-Street and District Neighbourhood Watch Scheme is timed to coincide with an expected surge in thefts from garden sheds and garages.

Scheme liaison officer Linda Carr said: "Many people renew their garden equipment at this time of the year and we expect a spate of thefts from sheds.

"We have printed 20,000 Sheducate leaflets which will be posted to householders in areas known to be hotspots.

"Sheducate is a play on words, but one with a serious message."

Ms Carr said the leaflet advises people to make sure they have good locks and that their sheds are properly locked at all times.

It is also advisable to have all your property post-coded with UV marker pens. And people with bicycles are advised to get special holders to lock them into.

Ms Carr said: "By working together and being more vigilant we will be able to crack down on the crime."

All the security devices highlighted in the leaflet can be bought at the police station.