POLICE are to swoop on crime hotspot areas in the run-up to Christmas.

The campaign called Strikeback will mainly be targeted at persistent burglars and be coupled with crime prevention advice to potential victims.

One of the simplest ways to deter thieves is to use light timer switches so lights come on at dusk, giving burglars the impression people are at home.

Det Chief Insp Keith Hallas , who is leading the campaign, said: "This initiative is designed to take a tough approach to those responsible for burglary within the Kirklees Division as well as providing practical help and support for residents to make their homes more secure.

"With days becoming shorter there are more opportunities for thieves to break to into properties under the cover of darkness and residents should be aware of this when they leave their home in the morning and may not return until later in the evening after dark.

"It's important to keep your property illuminated and an ideal way to do this is to use timer switches to make sure lights come on when you aren't in.

"This is a useful deterrent against would-be burglars.

"Make sure you lock your doors and windows as well, even when you are in the property.

"Around one in four burglaries occurs because a property is insecure and a thief has managed to sneak in.

"Also mark your property with a UV pen - it's easier for police to identify and return to its owner should it be stolen and it also makes the property worthless to a thief."

Neighbourhood Policing Teams, special constables, student officers and office staff will be out and about in hotspot areas posting crime prevention advice through letterboxes.

Det Chief Insp Hallas added: "This includes leaflet cards about taking simple measures to make your property more secure.

"The high visibility patrols will also make offenders think twice about targeting properties in those areas.

"We are also executing search warrants and targeting and arresting offenders who we suspect of being involved in burglary offences.

"We shall also be targeting those we suspect of handling and receiving stolen goods.

"In addition we are working with our partners such as the Drugs Intervention Programme to target burglary offenders and offer them drug treatment.

"It's time to say to offenders enough is enough. We are determined to drive down burglary and bring those responsible to justice. There will be a number of initiatives taking place to combat such criminality."

People should report anyone they suspect are involved in burglaries to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Anyone interested in getting crime prevention advice should contact their local crime reduction officer on 0845 6060606.