Sinister chalk symbols have been appearing outside houses, marking out which homes are being targeted by burglars.

Surrey Police has warned residents in and around Caterham to be vigilant and look out for these seemingly innocent scrawls, which hide a far more disturbing message, and to get in touch immediately should they spot anything similar.

And Thisissurreytoday is now able to reveal the meaning of the symbols after officers at Surrey Police managed to crack what is being dubbed the "Da Pinchi Code".

Inspector Elaine Burtenshaw said: "This is a troubling development in Tandridge and we want to sort it out quickly. We have thought carefully about whether to release this information to the public, but the criminals using these symbols are already aware of them.

"We hope that explaining what these symbols mean will help to stop them from being used and bring those responsible to justice."

Perhaps the most chilling of the symbols is the simple outline of a book used to alert fellow criminals that a vulnerable and easily conned female lives in a property.

And a crude plan view of a property is a sign that the unfortunate occupants have already been burgled.

Inspector Burtenshaw added: "I cannot give you any specifics about where these are being used, but they are making a resurgence and we are asking the public to work with us to catch those responsible."

Anyone with information is asked to call Surrey Police on 0845 1252222 or Crimestoppers free on 0800 555111.

Have you spotted the symbols near you? Call the news desk on 01737 732091.