Surrey Police is targeting residential burglaries by using an innovative property marking solution.

Selecta DNA is a uniquely coded non-toxic liquid which can be painted onto household items.

The liquid is clear but shows up under UV light. So if the marked item are stolen and retrieved by police it can be traced back to the rightful owners.

The property marking kits will also contain high-visibility warning labels and window stickers that advise that property at the address has been securely marked.

The local safer neighbourhood team will be knocking on doors in areas identified as “hotspots” to distribute the kits.

First piloted in Woking, 600 homeowners in Guildford, Elmbridge, and Epsom and Ewell will be given the chance to have the kits.

Jamie Robinson, force crime reduction advisor, said: “Selecta DNA’s main strength is its deterrent value.

"The fear factor comes into play as burglars are aware that DNA property marking is helping police to convict criminals.

"It has been proven that they are staying away from homes and belongings which are DNA protected.”

In addition to the marking, the safer neighbourhood teams will be offering general advice on crime reduction, and providing homeowners with the new Surrey Police crime reduction packs.

In some areas it has been proven that by marking belongings and displaying warning stickers, burglaries can be reduced by up to 85 per cent.

Mr Robinson said. “These projects are most effective when local people are kept well-informed and have been encouraged to do something about crime in their area.”

Surrey Police are encouraging more people to join their local Neighbourhood Watch.

Information about this can be found at www.surrey.police.uk

The average number of burglaries has decreased the year in Surrey compared to the same three month period last year by 18.5 per cent.

Overall crime fell in the region by 8.5 per cent, however violent crime and robberies both increased in the same period.