Suffolk police have issued advice on how to minimise the risk of thefts ahead of the clocks going forward.

Homeowners and tenants are being asked to pay more attention to home and vehicle security before the beginning of an opportunistic time for burglars as warm weather and lighter evenings start to arrive, with clocks going forward at 1am in the early hours of Sunday, March 25.

Advice included to check the security of sheds and garages, keep cars locked when left in areas popular with tourists, and to be on the lookout for pickpockets in busy areas.

Chief Inspector Stuart Grimsey of Suffolk Constabulary said: 'Most thefts from homes and vehicles are carried out by opportunist thieves who look out for lapses in security - such as doors and windows left open or property left on display in vehicles, especially in areas popular with tourists to our county.

'People are advised to make use of simple crime prevention methods which deprive thieves of the opportunity to steal.'

He added: 'Suffolk is an extremely safe place to live and your chances of being a victim of such crimes still remain extremely low, but you should look at your home through a thief's eyes. Don't become an easy target.

'We would also encourage people to be a good neighbour and to call the police If you see anybody acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood.'

Suffolk Constabulary offers the following advice to residents:

Windows

- Always lock your windows when you leave the house.

- Remove the keys and keep them in a safe place. However, everyone should know where the keys are kept so they can escape in an emergency.

Doors

- Keep your front and back doors locked or in view when you are at home.

- Use or consider fitting a door chain and spy hole - a chain allows you to speak to the caller without opening the door fully and the spy hole also you to see who is at the door.

- Fit five lever mortise locks to all external doors.

- Check your cylinder locks on patio/plastic doors and ensure they are snap and bump resistant - a local Master Locksmith can advise if you are not sure.

Keys

- Never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place such as under the doormat, burglars know all the usual hiding places.

- Never leave your house or car keys in or near a door or window.