Bicycles are the item of choice among burglars, making up 17 per cent of all theft claims handled by the insurer, although mobile phones – which make up 11 per cent of all theft claims –have leaped from fifth to second place in the top 10.

The analysis suggests burglars are shifting their attention to ‘next generation’ tech devices, disregarding less technologically advanced models. Claims for laptops have dropped by 30 per cent (and fallen two places in the top 10), while tablets have jumped to fifth place in the league table of most stolen items.

Televisions, a renowned target for burglars, remain in the top 10 for the time being, but claims for TV theft have dropped by 35 per cent in the past year – perhaps attributable to the ever-expanding size of sets making them harder for burglars to shift.

What burglars are looking for

Source: Direct Line Group, 2015

Winter remains the burglar’s favourite time to strike, with 19 per cent of all claims occurring in January and February. Short, dark days mean offer greater opportunity to strike, with gardens, sheds and garages being popular targets. However, burglars have apparently begun taking time off for Christmas, with claims in December dropping by 19 per cent.

Katie Lomas, head of Direct Line home insurance, said: “With the nights drawing in, it is perhaps unsurprising thefts increase, as there are more opportunities for burglars to strike without being seen. Items such as bicycles, gardening tools and golf equipment are among the most sought-after items, so if items must be stowed away outside the home, homeowners should make sure they are safe and secure.

“It is also important to check your insurance policy covers specific items such as sporting equipment left locked in the garden shed, as not all insurers cover this as standard. Items left at home while you’re out should be kept out of sight and it may be worth investing in extra security measures such as proximity alarms or security lights, to keep potential burglars at bay.”

Direct Line’s top tips on helping protect your belongings

• Tablets and phones now often come with security features allowing users to track their device; ensure this is turned on as it will help police locate your device should it be stolen.
• Try not to leave packaging for new expensive goods outside your home – it is better to take it to a public recycling bin.
• If you leave the house empty for long periods of time, it may be worth investing in timed lights or simply leaving internal lights on to deter burglars.
• If you keep power tools or garden equipment in an outbuilding or shed, make sure the shed is locked and/or has security features such as an alarm or security light.
• If you own a bicycle, make a note or take photographs of any frame numbers present.
• Keep receipts for any expensive electrical items, but do not keep them with items. Any unwanted receipts should be shredded.

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