Burglaries in Norwich have plunged to their lowest level in almost two decades.

Norfolk police have said a crackdown on prolific offenders and efforts by householders to beef up security as contributing to the fall.

Just 12 burglaries were reported last month, the lowest monthly level since monthly records began back in 1995, and over the past four weeks there have been just eight break-ins.

Superintendent Paul Sanford, the city's senior police officer, welcomed the fall and said householders had played their part in keeping the criminals out of their homes.

He said Norfolk police had also targeted known burglars, identifying trends and linking offences to help track down the culprits.

Supt Sanford said: 'I think the reduction can be attributed to a number of factors including good police work, identifying trends and linked offences while also targeting prolific offenders.

'These types of offences are often opportunistic and sometimes the result of brazen criminals trying door handles or even climbing through open windows.

'With this in mind, credit must be given to residents themselves for making sure their homes are locked and secure.'

See tomorrow's papers for the full story.

• Do you have a crime story? Call reporter Peter Walsh on 01603 772436 or email peter.walsh@archant.co.uk.