City's students get lesson on safe living; Police step up action as new term begins.

Byline: Neil McKay

POLICE in a university city have launched a campaign to stop burglars targeting students in the coming weeks.

Operation Porterspass has been designed to combat break-ins at all properties in Durham, but its launch coincides with the return to the city later this month of thousands of university students.

Officers have been working alongside organisations including Durham University, Durham County Council and various housing associations, looking at measures which can be taken to prevent the burglars striking.

A dedicated police team has been put together to target known criminals, both local and those travelling into Durham to carry out offences. They have already made a number of arrests, including one man alleged to have been driving up to Durham from his home address in Darlington to target certain premises. The 43-year-old has been charged with eight burglaries in the Newton Hall area of the city committed over the last few months. He last appeared before magistrates at Peterlee on Friday, and is currently remanded in HMP Holme House in Stockton awaiting his next court appearance.

In addition, crime prevention advice is being distributed to premises, community safety events are being organised and presentations and packs given especially to students.

"The latest figures show a welcome 25% reduction in burglaries but we need to keep up this good work. We will need to re-double our efforts as the student population starts to return to Durham," said Insp Paul Anderson.

"Working with our partners we can make Durham an even safer place to live. And residents can take a few simple measures which can make all the difference, such as not leaving property where it can be seen, making sure they leave a light on when going out and remembering to lock windows and doors."

Sam Dale, deputy academic registrar at the university said: "The university welcomes targeted action taken by the police to help our students enjoy a positive experience while living here."

Anyone with information about a crime should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or Durham Constabulary's non-emergency number 0345 606-0365. They can also ring the 0345 number to get crime prevention advice.

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WARNING Inspector Paul Anderson wants students to be vigilant.