It has been revealed by a home insurance company that the Christmas and New Year period will witness a rise in burglaries, thus an increase in claims.

The group analysed 10 years' worth of previous claims data and found that homes are 22% more likely than usual to suffer a break-in on December 31st.

Burglars tend take advantage of the fact that many householders have a night out on New Year's Eve and leave their homes empty.

Greg Gladwell, director of household claims at the firm, said: "While the spirits may be high on December 31st, don't forget to lock up the house behind you otherwise you might find someone else will be enjoying all your new gifts."

Meanwhile, Christmas Day was found to be responsible for a rise in fires, with claims burning to 130% above the norm. Gladwell added: "Watch out for all those dry flammable materials like wrapping paper and Christmas tree branches and don't forget to turn off the gas stove when you're watching the Queen's speech."