BURGLARIES in Newport are down almost a quarter since 2005.

But although burglary figures are also down on last year, police are warning residents to keep their homes secure to avoid the spike of burglaries which happened last summer.

Statistics show one in three burglaries in Newport happen because windows and doors are left open or unlocked.

In June last year there were 79 burglaries, and 30 were insecure properties.

This June, there were 68 burglaries, 22 of which were insecure properties.

Last summer, police say a spike in burglaries, reported in the Argus, was largely due to people not locking doors and windows.

Inspector Rod Grindlay based at Newport Central said: "As the weather gets warmer, the likelihood of people leaving their doors or windows open increases.

"We are trying to reduce this type of crime by telling people to make sure everything is locked before they go to bed.

"Even when you are at home in the daytime, windows and doors should be kept locked in any unoccupied areas of the home."

Crime prevention officer Nick Haynes added: "The majority of burglars walk around trying door handles and looking for open windows.

"If they find a door or window unlocked they will enter the property and steal anything that can be carried away."

If you have any concerns or information about burglaries, please call Gwent Police on 01633 838111.