POLICE have appointed "super sleuths" in a bid to further reduce County Durham's already low house burglary rate.

A team of six specialist "burglary support officers" will lead the investigation into every domestic break-in.

The Durham force hopes they will build up detailed knowledge of the burglars' methods of operating and a sixth sense that will help it catch more culprits.

The officers, who will work in specific areas, have been schooled in crime scene management, forensic awareness and crime prevention.

The number of burglaries fell to a low of 2,802 last year.

The force's head of CID, Detective Chief Superintendent Ian Scott, said: "Local knowledge is absolutely crucial and by going to every burglary scene within their area they will recognise patterns and similarities that will ultimately help track down those responsible.

"Once it has been established a crime has been committed, the burglary support officers will take over. They will carry out a thorough investigation, follow up leads, take statements, identify lines of inquiry that will recover stolen property and give the victims regular updates.

"They will also offer crime prevention advice to make sure those whose homes have been violated do not become repeat victims.

"By improving the quality of investigations and arresting more suspects we believe it will lead to further reductions. At the same time our service to victims will increase significantly."