POLICE in Durham and Chester-le-Street are warning burglars they will not be taking a holiday during the festive season.

A crackdown on thieves is in operation to counter a 60 per cent increase in house break-ins across the division.

More than 40 suspects - believed to be responsible for more than 100 burglaries - have been arrested by detectives and uniformed officers.

Some are being held in custody while others have already been taken to court and sentenced for their crimes.

Detective Inspector Andy Reddick said there would be no let-up in the campaign during the Christmas and New Year festivities.

"I am delighted with the success of the operations which we will still be running through Christmas and into next year."

In addition to undercover operations, uniformed officers have been mounting high visibility patrols in areas that have been identified as break-in hotspots.

Det Insp Reddick said: "I am sure that the hard core of criminals within the division are now all too well aware that they have been targeted.

"Many have been arrested either for burglary or for handling stolen goods. Some are currently in custody awaiting trial while others have been sentenced by the courts.

"For those still at large, we can promise that there will be no respite during the coming weeks."

Anyone with information about a crime should call Durham police station, on 0191-386 4222, Chester-le-Street police station, on 0191-388 4311 or Crimestoppers, on freephone (0800) 555111.