MEMBERS of the public are being urged to ‘light the night against crime’ as the darker nights draw in following reports of more than 150 burglaries.

The new Cleveland Police campaign aims to raise awareness of home security as the nights get darker following confirmation that 156 burglaries have taken place at residential properties across the force area this month.

Officers are encouraging people to leave on a light when homes are unattended or use timer switches to make it look as though someone is at home, even when they are not.

Inspector Fay Cole said: “Lighting up a home can be the difference between a burglar targeting your home or not.

"By leaving on a light, a burglar may think that someone is home and this can provide a visual deterrent, preventing you from becoming a victim of crime.

“Criminals prefer the cover of darkness to commit their crimes as it can conceal their activity and identity. Simply leaving some lights on can prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.”