GARDENS should be a thorn in thieves' sides, say police.

Officers have urged people to fight back against green-fingered felons by planting prickly bushes next to their garden fences and walls.

Dewsbury crime prevention and architectural liaison officer Pc Colin Whiteley said: "Garden furniture and tools are very saleable items, so we are urging people to make it as difficult as possible for thieves to get to their property.

"Thorny bushes and shrubs can be a good deterrent."

Police operations will be conducted in the near future to arrest known criminals and persistent offenders in a springtime crime clean-up.

Det Chief Insp Aidan Byrne, of Dewsbury police, said: "Those who wish to carry on thieving can expect no favours from us.

"We will be using every opportunity to disrupt and arrest persistent criminals."

Anyone needing advice about home security should contact their local crime prevention officer on 0845 6060606.