Hide Christmas shopping and wrapped presents from would-be thieves

That's the message from the Harborough District Community Safety Partnership.

The Harborough District Community Safety Partnership recognizes that Christmas is often a very busy time for people, which can mean that they do not take the time to consider steps to keep their property safe.

Cllr Michael Rickman, portfolio holder for community safety said: “We’re delighted to see a growing number of residents shopping locally for Christmas presents. Sadly, at this time of year, people at shopping at destinations across the country can be targeted by opportunist thieves who attempt to break into homes and vehicles to steal valuable items.”

He added: “We’re urging people to take some simple preventative actions which can work to avoid disappointment, keep any would-be thieves at bay, and ensure everyone across the District has a safe and happy Christmas.”

Christmas Crime Prevention Tips

When out Christmas shopping:

• When shopping  - if you return gifts to your car in between visits to shops, then place them in the boot of your car with a parcel shelf, make sure that it is closed, obscuring the view of anything you are storing in your car.
• Keep your wallet/purse and handbags zipped closed, and with you, at all times

At home:

• Leave your wrapped presents out of view, consider positioning your Christmas tree out of view, if you plan to leave your presents underneath the tree in the run up to Christmas Day

If you observe anyone acting suspiciously in-and-around vehicles across the District please contact Leicestershire Police on 999.