The borough’s police chief has written a letter to Redbridge magistrates warning them of a spike in the number of household burglaries.

Figures show a “significant” rise in break-ins in the borough since the start of December, with an overall rise of six per cent compared to last year.

In the 12 months to January 2011, 2,804 burglaries took place in Redbridge, a rise from 2,625 the previous year.

Borough Commander Sue Williams said: “Redbridge Borough has, since the beginning of December 2010, experienced a significant rise in residential burglaries.

“Historically, for the last three years, Redbridge has recorded a seasonal peak in burglaries between November and February and this year has been no exception. The high incident rate this year may have been adversely influenced by the harsh economic climate.”

In the open letter to magistrates and to the Criminal Prosecution Service, Det Chief Supt Williams outlined the rise in residential burglaries and asked them to take this into account when dealing with suspected burglars.

The total amount of residential burglaries across the borough has been more than 1,000 in the last three months and police have arrested 88 suspected burglars leading to 31 people being charged with residential burglary.

In the 12 months to January 2011 the worst area for burglary in Redbridge was Wanstead with nearly two incidents per 100 residents. Residents in Snaresbrook were the least likely to fall victim, with only one burglary per 100 residents last year.

In response to the alarming spike officers have warned people to ensure their home is left secure and they have launched a crime prevention campaign called: “See it. Report it. Don’t ignore it.”

A spokesman said: “Redbridge Police is continuously working with its partners to tackle all forms of crime but, with the public acting as our eyes and ears, we can reduce burglary and hold those responsible to account.”