THE stark words of an ex-burglar rang through the ears of shoppers as part of a crackdown on break-ins.

People stopped to watch the filmed interview with the former crook, who told how easy it was to get into houses.

Shown on a giant TV screen, the ex-offender said: “I used to walk down streets, try doors, and you’re guaranteed out of 20 houses, you’d find three or four of those with back doors open.”

The film was part of a roadshow held in Corringham High Street, yesterday, which aims to drive down the number of burglaries by shocking people into realising that failing to lock up can leave them victims of a break-in.

Bobbies from Corringham were on hand to give residents security tips, while officers from Essex Police’s mounted unit were also there to speak with shoppers.

Chief Insp Paul Moor, of Thurrock police, said: “This is a great way of educating the public on how they can help us in our fight against the burglar.

“We are asking all residents to be security conscious, especially as the weather hots up and people are more likely to leave windows open.

“People are breaking into sheds and garages and are selling items on at boot sales, so outbuildings should be fully secured too.”