RESIDENTS in Redditch are being told to beef up their home security.

Police in the town have said home security is the best way to reduce chances of being burgled.

A lot of burglaries are spur of the moment, as a burglar may see an open opportunity and take their chance.

A police spokesman said: "Remember to securely lock all doors and windows before leaving the house. It is easy to forget when you are in hurry, but its the simplest way for a burglar to enter your home.

"A home that looks empty is far more likely to be targeted by a burglar, so its worth making sure your home looks occupied. Use automatic timer-switches to turn on a light and perhaps a radio when it goes dark, even if you are just out for a couple of hours."

For more tips and advice, go to westmercia.police.uk.