HOMEOWNERS in Bury have been warned to watch out for thieves breaking into homes by snapping door locks.

A spokesman for GMP in the Bury North area has moved to make people aware of a spate of break-ins across the town in recent weeks.

Lock snapping involves a specific type of door lock cylinder which can be snapped in two by removing the outer mechanism and putting pressure on a specific section.

Once the inner workings of the lock are exposed the door can be opened relatively simply and burglars can gain access to a home.

In a tweet, GMP Bury North said: "Residents should be aware of a recent increase in the number of lock snapping burglaries across the Bury area.

"Lock snapping is simple to prevent by purchasing and fitting anti-lock snapping barrels."

Anyone concern about their home being broken into can find a number of 'snap-proof' locks on the market.