THE festive run-up is a burglar’s dream, but with only one Northwich break-in in four years it appears the intruders are done and dusted in time for Christmas Day.

Figures gathered in a Freedom of Information request show, besides Northwich’s one, Winsford witnessed two Christmas Day burglaries, 2010 and 2012, with the two towns’ total reaching 136 for the month of December in the four-year period.

Police confirmed burglars look upon the run-up to Christmas as a boom time, when homes are stocked with presents waiting to be delivered to friends and relatives.

It is therefore no surprise on average 60 per cent of the month’s burglaries occur between December 15 and Christmas Eve.

A police spokesperson said: “If the door is left unlocked, that really adds to the festive spirit as far as they are concerned. They can target your presents with no more effort than pushing the handle and opening the door.

“From time to time we issue warnings about the need to lock your door as the very first step in home security. At this time of year, that is even more important.

“Some burglars specialise in sneak-ins. They are quite happy to move up and down streets in daylight or in the dark, trying door handles until they find one which is unlocked – they can be in and out of your home very quickly.

“If you are in, they will take whatever is available in a kitchen or hallway while you are in another room.

“If you are out – even if it is only as far away as the garden – they will have time to search your home and the Christmas presents you chose so carefully will disappear.”

The statistics show there have only been six Boxing Day burglaries between 2009 and 2012, but DI Liam Furlong, head of the burglary team for the area, is urging residents to remain security conscious.

"Many burglars are attracted to homes that have been left in darkness,” he said.

"We are urging residents to take a few simple steps to ensure their home is secure − especially if you are going to be late home or out for the night.

"Be on your guard and if you see anyone acting suspiciously then please report it to the police immediately – even the smallest amount of information can be useful when piecing together a case."