EXTRA police patrols are taking place in South Craven to target crimes associated with the longer nights.

Officers are focussing on security in the home, and also with vehicles, in a bid to combat a traditional spike in offences at this time of year.

The patrols are operating between 4pm and midnight and concentrating on Cross Hills, Kildwick and Sutton – areas that the police say are particularly susceptible to cross-border crime.

Sergeant Paul Evans, of Craven Neighbourhood Police, said people needed to be extra vigilant as darker nights set in.

“Burglars and other criminals like to work under the cover of darkness so it’s important to be alert at this time of year,” he added.

“If people take basic crime-prevention steps and work with us, we can make a real difference not just in catching offenders but also in stopping crimes happening in the first place.

“Our operation aims to reassure people, share crime-prevention advice and detect offences.”

Sgt Evans urged householders to take a few steps to protect their property against potential crime:

* Homes should be well lit, to give the impression that someone is in.

* Timer switches should be used to turn lights on and off while you are out.

* Curtains should not be left closed during the day, and only when they should be, in the evenings and overnight.

* All windows and doors should be kept locked.

* Valuable items should be kept out of view, and not where they can been seen through a window.

* Gates to property should be well secured.

People who see anyone acting suspiciously around properties in South Craven can report it to North Yorkshire Police on the non-emergency 101 number. If you see a crime in progress, call 999.