VICTIMS of burglary in Bury are being asked to "help police with their inquiries".

As part of Operation Magpie, Greater Manchester Police's campaign to reduce domestic burglary, all victims of this crime in February of this year are set to receive a survey. The results will be used to ensure the force is addressing the right causes and hotspot areas in order to tackle this problem more effectively.

This is believed to be the first time a police force has undertaken such an extensive task. Approximately 3,200 surveys, accompanied by a letter from the Chief Constable of Greater Manchester, Mr Michael Todd, are being distributed to homes in Bury and other parts of Greater Manchester.

The aim is to provide police with a better knowledge and understanding of the burglary problem locally.

The survey, produced by the GMP's Crime Reduction Section, will pose various questions, including the type and location of a person's home, whether a burglar alarm is installed, the material of the front and back doors and the type of door locks fitted.

Chief Inspector David Flitcroft of GMP's Crime Reduction Section said: "We are committed to reducing domestic burglary which is why we are running Operation Magpie.

"In order for us to deploy our resources effectively and distribute appropriate advice to householders, we need to fully understand why this crime occurs against certain people.

"Overall, we hope the results of the survey will enable us to prevent people becoming victims of this cowardly and traumatic crime."

Since January, Operation Magpie has involved a number of high-profile police initiatives in hotspot areas across the county This campaign will be running over the next year alongside Operation Hawk, GMP's initiative to stamp out street crime.