A CARDBOARD policeman has been recruited to help tackle a rise in sneak-in burglaries.

But the life-size cut-out isn't the desperate move of a cash-strapped force low on real bobbies.

Senior officers in County Durham hope that the six replicas of crime prevention officer PC Brian George will warn people that sneak thieves will be on the prowl this summer. The eye-catching figure, in high-visibility yellow jacket, will be displayed at DIY stores and supermarkets.

The force hopes it will alert shoppers to the security devices that can be bought from Neighbourhood Watch coordinators which could help deter burglars.

PC George said: "So many burglaries happen while people are out in the garden or garage, usually to the rear of the premises.

"These burglars aren't after a confrontation, they want to be in and out as quickly as possible with whatever they can find.

"They are usually after bags, purses, key rings, mobile phones or anything else left lying around in view. A few simple precautions can make life much more difficult for them.''

In the past three years, there have been 2,000 sneak-in burglaries.

The crime tends to increase in the warmer months when doors and windows are left open.

The campaign will also include Neighbourhood Watch volunteers selling security gadgets and community police dogs Jet and Ben visiting pensioners.

Detectives in each division will be targeting known offenders.