Thumbprints are the latest weapon being deployed by police in the war against burglars and thieves.

Surrey Police have teamed up with four Epsom shops to stop thieves being able to sell-on stolen goods.

From now on, if someone wishes to sell something to a second-hand store participating in the Thumbprint Signature Scheme they will have to provide an inkless thumbprint.

This will be kept by the shop with a copy of the receipt.

Prints will only be forwarded to police to check against the National Fingerprint Database if the property is later found to be stolen.

Epsom and Ewell Neighbourhood Inspector Craig Knight, said: "Epsom and Ewell suffers from burglaries and we are constantly looking at new ways of preventing further crimes taking place.

As well as asking people to do the basics to prevent their homes becoming a target we are also asking suppliers of secondhand goods and anyone who may buy gold or jewellery to do their part.

"By signing up to this scheme retailers are helping us in the battle against handlers of stolen goods and customers receive peace of mind they are not purchasing pinched property.

"We are hoping to extend the scheme to other shops in Epsom and Ewell and would urge any interested retailers to contact the Safer Neighbourhood Team."

Participating stores will display a poster advising customers they are taking part in the scheme and stores have also been supplied with a fingerprint taking kit.

Visit www.surrey.police.uk for more information.