BOLTON Institute students are being warned to guard against burglary as they settle into their digs for the new academic term.

Insurance company Endsleigh says its national figures show most burglaries take place at this time of year.

Burglars target students because they usually have a large number of expensive items like computers which are easy to steal and sell on, says Endsleigh.

The company warns that even students living in halls need to beware of leaving their doors open, even if they are just popping into a neighbouring room to see a friend.

Endsleigh says students should check all locks, put up net curtains so their belongings cannot be seen, never assume a house mate has locked up and do everything possible to try and avoid their property looking like a student house.

Dominic Cerillo, promotions manager, said: "We estimate that on average, one student house is burgled every four minutes.

"It is important students minimise the risk."