EXTRA police patrols are being put on the streets to tackle the increasing number of house burglaries in some parts of Bolton.

Three men have already been arrested as part of the new initiative, which has just got underway.

Two were being detained on suspicion of burglary and the other on intent to commit burglary. Additional patrol officers in high visibility uniforms are being deployed in the hot-spot areas around the north east of the town.

They are working alongside plain-clothes detectives who are targeting known offenders in the worst affected districts.

Officers with dogs will also be available to track people who are suspected of breaking into properties.

Police are reminding the public that burglars are essentially opportunists who look for easy targets.

They are encouraging residents to be extra vigilant and have issued a number of basic guidelines.

They include informing the police immediately of any suspicious activities, keeping vehicles locked with all property removed from view and locking doors and windows even when at home.

Inspector John Dunstane from Astley Bridge police said: "We are determined to crack down on burglary and this new initiative is a sign of our commitment.

"Additional officers will be patrolling the streets in the worst hit areas to reassure residents.

"I would urge all members of the public to be extra vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police.

"This time of year, in the run up to Christmas, is a busy time for burglars so don't give them any opportunity."

Anyone with information about offences that have been committed including burglaries should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

EXTRA police patrols are being put on the streets to tackle the increasing number of house burglaries in some parts of Bolton.

Three men have already been arrested as part of the new initiative, which has just got underway.

The arrests came as the tough new crackdown in the town was being launched by Bolton Police.

Two were being detained on suspicion of burglary and the other on intent to commit burglary. As part of the scheme, additional patrol officers in high visibility uniforms are being deployed in the hot-spot areas around the north east of the town.

They are working alongside plain clothes detectives who are targeting known and wanted offenders in the worst affected districts.

Officers with dogs will also be available to track people who are suspected of breaking into properties.

Police are reminding the public that burglars are essentially opportunists who look for easy targets.

They are encouraging residents to be extra vigilant and have issued a number of basic guidelines.

They include informing the police immediately of any suspicious activities, keeping vehicles locked with all property removed from view and locking doors and windows even when at home.

Inspector John Dunstane from Astley Bridge police said: "We are determined to crack down on burglary and this new initiative is a sign of our commitment.

"Additional officers will be patrolling the streets in the worst hit areas to reassure residents.

"I would urge all members of the public to be extra vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police.

"This time of year, in the run up to Christmas, is a busy time for burglars so don't give them any opportunity."

Anyone with information about offences that have been committed including burglaries should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

lmcfall@boltoneveningnews.co.uk