MOST burglaries are spur of the moment raids.

And your garden shouldn't be the weak point but the first line of defence, says Halton's home security guru Phil Buckley.

Phil, a vastly experienced former CID officer now working on home safety for Halton Police, uses his inside knowledge to tip people off about the little things that put off opportunistic crooks.

Phil said: "Thoughts of home security usually start at the front door, but the garden, the garage, the greenhouse and the shed often contain some valuable possessions."

He said prickly plants can put off thieves from casual raids, and simply putting garden tools away stops crooks spotting a useful way of breaking into your house.

Sheds need to be properly secured as well, with shed alarms and strong pad locks.

"Consider a gravel path around the shed or under house windows, this would make it difficult for the would-be offender to do things quietly," said Phil.

Further more information call Phil on 01244-613971.