The Bromley police force has assured residents that they are working tirelessly to reduce the number of burglaries in the borough.

However, they have offered tips to victims of burglaries in the hopes it will improve chances of catching the culprits.

Below is the advice provided by Gary Byfield, the inspector for the Bromley Safer Neighbourhoods Watch Association.

* Remember to always report to police as soon as possible. Use 101 for non-emergency reporting or 999 if it is an emergency.

* Establish if objects have been moved. Have any drawers or cupboards been opened? List where these items are and try to keep them untouched for when Police attend.

* Try to find the place of entry and exit used by the burglar. Try to keep this area untouched. Are there any footprints? If you find a route you think was used, try to find another route to use yourself so as not to disturb evidence.

* Has anything been eaten or drunk out of? Are there discarded cigarettes or tools? If so, note where and let officers know when they attend.

* If you feel comfortable, make enquiries with neighbours. Did they see or hear anything? Try to find a time of the incident and any other specific details to pass on to officers.

* If you believe they have been stolen, cancel bank debit/credit cards.

* Think back over the past few days. Has anyone been hanging around, acting suspiciously? The smallest piece of information can help identify a suspect.

* If you saw the suspect and think you would recognise them again, tell the reporting officer so they can give you the opportunity to identify them.

* You will be asked to make a statement so think of all relevant details the officer may need to help progress the investigation.

* Please let us know whether you have any special requirements i.e. you are disabled or feel particularly vulnerable.

A police statement added: "We hope you are never in a position where you need to take this advice. However, if it does happen to you we hope it will assist you."