Homes in Balham and Battersea are more prone to burglary according to a new crime report.

Although the total number of burglaries in the borough has dropped to 2,761 for 2000/01, attributed in part to the success of the council's anti-burglary schemes, the report reveals crime hotspots around Balham station, Battersea High Street and Battersea Bridge Road. It also shows a new hotspot north of Earlsfield and east of Garratt Lane.

The figures from the council's Crime and Disorder Audit Report are used to spot trends and develop new initiatives.

Peak burglary times are between 1pm and 4pm, when people are at work or collecting children from school, and after 8pm. People living in Battersea aged 26 to 40 - also the main age range of burglars - are those most likely to be burgled.

Council measures to further cut crime include the Wandsafe service, where burglary victims are given advice and can have new locks fitted.

Money from the Government's Reducing Burglary fund is also used for measures like CCTV, awareness and advice sessions and leafleting and home visits.

There are also 900 council-funded Neighbourhood Watch groups.

Cabinet member for the environment and public services Councillor Guy Senior said: "Many parts of Wandsworth are affluent and attract thieves. But we will continue to expand our anti-burglary initiatives and support Neighbourhood Watch.

November 23, 2001 11:00