South Lakeland Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership is continuing the Lock It Or Lose It Campaign it started in May, with a reminder to everyone not to leave doors and windows open and motorists to make sure they lock car doors to deter opportunist thieves. .

Stickers for the campaign, are intended to be placed by the lock on a front door or car door as a reminder to lock-up, and are available through Age Concern, Cumbria Police, South Lakes Housing, South Lakeland District Council and Cumbria Fire and Rescues Service to help spread the message as far a field as possible. They are also available in Tourist Information Centres and local libraries.

Andy Shine, chairman of the South Lakeland Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, said: “South Lakeland is one of the safest places in Cumbria and the whole North West, yet some of the crime here would not occur if all of us simply remembered to turn a key in a lock. It is just as important during the dark winter months, to secure our homes, vehicles, garages and sheds and play our own part in helping to keep crime down.”

Geoff Huddlestone, Acting Detective Chief Inspector, who is the Chair of the CDRP’s Acquisitive Crime Group, said: “South Lakeland is a very safe place to live, and crime levels are low. Even so, simple steps can be taken to reduce the chance of you and your family becoming subject to burglary. We actively investigate these crimes as we always have burglary as a crime priority.

"What I am seeking is assistance from our community in ensuring that by taking measures to increase the security of their property, this can have a positive result.

"We know that burglary leaves its effect upon those unfortunate to become a victim. I would ask for people to pass this message onto friends and neighbours, and to be vigilant and phone the police if they see anything suspicious.

"We live in a very safe part of the Country and we all have an opportunity to work together and make it safer. The simple message from me is lock it, or lose it.”