RESIDENTS in Trafford are to be given free anti-property theft kits as part of an initiative to reduce burglary during the festive season.

The kits which contain an anti-theft forensic traceable liquid that can be painted on property, leave an indelible mark which glows yellow under UV light.

Police officers and PCSOs will be visiting homes in targeted areas of the borough with the kits, which include stickers to warn potential thieves that they are using the system on their property.

As well as helping police track stolen goods, it can also be deployed as a spray system to mark the skin and clothing of offenders in order to link offenders with a specific crime scene.

Each custody suite in Trafford now has a UV light installed and all prisoners are scanned as they are taken into custody.

Supt Mark Kenny said: "We welcome the Trafford pilot and hope the initiative helps to reduce crime.

“We are working with local councils to roll out this project sending a very clear message to criminals that operate in these areas to beware.

“Our officers will proactively use the forensic traceable liquid to track down stolen property to not only bring criminals to justice but to return property to its rightful owner if its stolen.

“Along with increased patrols during the Christmas period this technology will aid police officers in keeping the streets of Greater Manchester safe”

To report any suspicious behaviour in your area please dial 101, always call 999 in an emergency.