Houeholds could earn rewards of up to £1000 for providing information about burglaries.

Independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers has launched a campaign to encourage people in Essex to share what they know about any break-ins or stolen goods.

On January 8 and 9 a police advertising van will tour Epping Forest, which sees an upturn in burglaries in the winter months, giving details about the campaign.

Postcards have also been delivered to homes and messages sent out on social media.

Ann Scott, eastern regional manager for Crimestoppers, said: "Those that do not want to speak with Essex Police on 101 can use the Crimestoppers 24 hour phone number of 0800 555 111 where they can give information about crime 100 percent anonymously.

“Sometimes, the offer of a reward can bring someone forward, but generally it’s the sense of wanting to make their community safer without having to reveal their identity.”

Crimestoppers guarentees anonymity to those providing information and any phone calls are not traced or recorded.

Members of the public are eligible to claim a reward if the information they provide leads to someone being charged.

A ‘giving information’ form can be completed online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org but rewards cannot be claimed this way.