. . . with Sgt Mark Bradley Crimestoppers number: 0800 555111(All calls will be treated confidentially) THE New Year is upon us, how about making some New Year's resolutions to assist the police in helping you.

1. I will use the locks on my doors and windows -- Burglaries continue to occur in homes throughout the Leigh sub-division of which a quarter are committed through insecure windows and doors. By simply using locking devices that are already fitted YOU THE PUBLIC may prevent one in four burglaries and thereby reduce crime.

2. I will fit a recognised physical security device to my car - A number of car crime prevention initiatives have been undertaken on the Leigh sub-division utilising the Autolok 2000/Halfords Wheelshield which is an independently recognised product. To date these products have had a 100pc success rate. Could you manage without your car if it was stolen?

3. I will property mark my belongings - Do you realise that there is a large amount of property which is seized by the police during house searches of suspected offenders? A percentage of these goods is disposed of because the rightful owners cannot be identified. By marking your valuable items of property with a diamond tipped scriber of ultra violet marker pen may enable the police to return your goods should they be stolen. Your postcode and house numbers should be used.

4. I will not leave items on view in my cars as a temptation to the thief - The majority of thefts from vehicles are committed by the opportunist who sees an item on display in you vehicle and therefore commits the offence. If property is either removed or put in the boot it is unlikely that the thief will break into your vehicle on the off chance. If possible have a coded music system fitted with a removable control panel.