BURGLARY victims and police warn residents to keep their valuables out of sight as home break-ins increase by over a quarter in the borough.

According to a study released this week, people in London stand a greater chance of being burgled than in any other city in the country, with break-in rates in the capital as much as 55 per cent higher than the national average.

While the latest Metropolitan Police figures show burglaries have actually fallen in central London, worrying spikes have been seen in more isolated outer boroughs, with Redbridge experiencing one of the largest increases of 26.7 per cent.

And according to Home Office statistics, break-ins increased by 4 per cent across the UK last year as the recession deepened between September and December.

Engineer Sagie Evbenata, 33, had his Audi stolen off his driveway in Harpenden Road, Wanstead, last year after thieves used a magnetic pole to reach through his letter box and snatch his keys off a nearby table.

He said: "It's possible that these sort of things happen around here because it's quite an accessible area and I think my car was recovered near Barkingside so it was probably taken by locals.

"You have to be aware and make sure that everything is in from outside, but if someone's determined to get in then they will, regardless of how well you prepare."

Redbridge Dept Chief Inspector Nick Simpson said crimes like this are particularly common in the west of the borough.

He added: "There are clearly a number of roads in this area that facilitate getting in and out quickly, such as the A406 and the M11.

"I don't have any evidence however to suggest it's teams of people from outside the borough, as burglary is traditionally committed by offenders who live quite locally, because they feel safe to commit crimes in an area they know."

He added: "I also feel that cars have become more difficult to steal through traditional means and people need the keys now to get into the engine management system.

"I believe this is contributing to the rise in burglaries that we are seeing."

Top tips for keeping your home safe: Keep all windows and doors locked, especially at night.

Don't leave your valuables on display or your car keys near the door.

Review your security and consider getting an alarm.

Tell your neighbours to keep a look out when you're away.

Leave a light or the radio on when you go out.

If you are burgled, called the police immediately on: 0300 123 1212