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A property marking liquid, designed to help police trace stolen goods, has helped reduce crime in two areas of Burton.

Burglary offences and theft from cars dropped in Winshill and Stapenhill after police distributed more than 1,000 SmartWater kits to homes. Each kit has a unique code, which allows police to link stolen items with their rightful owner and increases the chances of prosecution.

In the weeks after the kits were distributed, one car was broken into and two burglaries were reported. Police say they would normally expect in the region of 12 offences.

Inspector Jay Oomer, commander of Burton, said: “It has shown that crooks can be blinded by science. The results are extremely encouraging and I hope to expand to other areas to protect people’s property and give residents a real sense of confidence.”