A ‘perfect storm’ has seen an increase in burglaries in the North West amid fears of a crime epidemic.

Following the release of figures by the Office for National Statistics which reveal residential burglaries have risen from 30,622 to 32,339 for the 12-month period to June, John Murphy, of insurance broker Lycetts, is urging householders to take stock of their insurance cover.

Mr Murphy said: "The ‘cost of living’ crisis, combined with the increase in value of such items as jewellery due to inflation, risks incentivising thieves.

"This has been exacerbated by the onset of longer nights when police typically report spikes in burglaries, with the cover of darkness making it easier for thieves to operate.

"In such a climate, people may consider cutting corners on their insurance to make savings. However, this is fraught with risk and can lead to considerable financial loss."

Murphy stressed the importance of reviewing policies on a regular basis during periods of rapid inflation, rather than just at annual renewal.

He also highlighted that it is the policy holder, not the insurer, who is responsible for ensuring sums insured are adequate.