POLICE in Western Area celebrating a significant reduction in the number of house burglaries on their patch.

Figures for September show there was a drop of 17 per cent compared to August and the early indications are that October will see further reductions of around 10 per cent.

Chief Inspector Brian Roberts, Crime Manager for Western Area, said: “It is good to see that burglaries in the area are reducing.

“Fewer people are therefore finding themselves victims of one of the most distressing and invasive forms of acquisitive crime.

“The figures are a testament to the work being done by officers across the area who are doing everything they can to reduce crime and to make the Western Area a safer and better place for everyone.”

Everyone that is apart from criminals, as the past month has seen a 253% rise in detections for burglary dwelling.

Chief Insp Roberts added: “Our investigation teams are producing excellent results and are making life more and more difficult for criminals in the area.

“The Pro-active Policing Team, supported by officers from Neighbourhood Policing Units and Crime Scene Investigators, is having a real impact and through targeted operations is putting some of our most problematic offenders before the courts.

“I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of members of the public who have played a valuable role in so many investigations.

“Information provided by people in Western Area has been integral in the successful detection of crime and if we are to continue this success then we need to build on this.

“Western Area benefits from dedicated police officers and staff, but they cannot be in all places at all times – this is where the public can play an enormous part in tackling crime.

“We need everyone in the area to be vigilant and on the lookout for anything suspicious or potentially criminal.

“If you spot something out of the ordinary or untoward, report it to the police immediately.

“There may be a genuine reason for the unusual behaviour, but we can determine this and by providing information you might just be helping to solve or even prevent a crime.”

To report suspicious behaviour contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.