POLICE are to shed light on a serious crime prevention message.

They are using a powerful searchlight to project a logo on to large buildings in Huddersfield town centre all this week reminding people to use automatic timers to lighten up their homes with dusk now falling during late afternoon.

The stunt is part of the force's Lighten Up campaign, which is also targeting burglary hotspots and focusing on known criminals.

Det Insp John Minary, the force's crime reduction officer, said: "At this time of year there is traditionally an increase in the number of burglaries with the onset of the darker nights.

"Houses are particularly vulnerable from about 4pm onwards when burglars can easily identify unoccupied houses.

"Taking a few simple precautions can reduce the opportunity for burglars to strike and lead to fewer people becoming victims of crime.

The campaign is also supported by crime prevention cards, posters and a pre-film advert to be shown at cinemas.