POLICE in Gateshead say a crackdown on known burglars has led to the number of break-ins falling by 61 per cent.

Northumbria Police targeted the ten most prolific thieves in the borough, which led to the massive reduction in offences compared to the same period last year.

Five of the burglars have been sentenced to a total of more than 22 years in prison, and a further two are awaiting sentence.

Many of the burglaries were sneak-in offences and accounted for about a third of the burglaries committed in the town - with thieves taking advantage of people leaving their doors open to steal things such as car keys and handbags.

Superintendent Mick Hassen, of the Gateshead area command, said: "I'm very pleased these individuals are off the streets and not stealing from the honest, hard-working community of Gateshead.

"Thousands of pounds worth of property is stolen simply because people have not taken the care to lock doors and the thieves make the most of the opportunity.

"By taking simple measures, people can protect their property and prevent a great deal of heartache."