GREATER Manchester Police's Chief Constable Michael Todd "locked up" residents on Thursday.

He fitted window and door locks at homes in Halliwell as part of an initiative to reduce burglaries in Bolton.

Over the summer months, people tend to leave their windows and doors open but it provides an ideal opportunity for burglars.

One in five burglaries in Greater Manchester happens in this way.

This has led the Chief Constable to highlight how the police are trying to improve people's home security also to emphasise how easy it is for the public to help themselves.

Crime prevention leaflets are being distributed in burglary hotspots throughout Greater Manchester to remind home owners of the steps they can take to reduce the chance of them becoming a victim.

In a number of areas, such as Halliwell in Bolton, officers are also improving the security of vulnerable properties with assistance from other organisations.

After a survey is carried out to identify where improvements can be made, the Bolton at Home housing company is fitting door and window locks, along with other home security equipment that may be required.

Mr Todd, said: "Under Operation Magpie, officers across the Force, alongside our various partners, are determined to ensure that all residents are given the right burglary crime prevention advice and that vulnerable homes are equipped with basic security measures.

"However, we need the help of the public to make it hard for burglars. The message is quite simply lock your doors and windows, whether you are going out, just sitting in the garden or in bed at night."

To reinforce this message, a new marketing campaign is being launched to highlight the ALL (alarm, locks and lights) message to encourage people to switch on their alarm before going out or going to bed at night, to lock doors and windows and to switch a light on before going out to make their house look occupied.

In Halliwell, the security upgrades are carried out as part of the "Safe and Secure" Partnership which involves the council, Bolton at Home, the police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue and Victim Support.