CHRISTMAS shoppers are being urged by Worcester Police to adopt three precautions to thwart thieves in the run-up to the festive season.

Police fear many people could have their festivities ruined by giving opportunist thieves the chance to take easy pickings and have issued a warning.

Chief Inspector Alan Baldwin said: "Members of the law-abiding public bearing gifts are a welcome seasonal sight for criminals. The quantity and quality of their targets is greatly increased during the run-up to Christmas.

"This needs to be matched by an equal upturn in personal vigilance and good old-fashioned common sense.

"There is, in reality, a considerable amount that the public can do to ensure they have a happy Christmas and that all presents get to the people they are intended for and not to opportunist thieves."

Police say the three wise moves are:

l When out shopping make doubly sure that your personal belongings, particularly handbags, wallets, credit cards and mobile phones, are not carried or placed - even for only a few seconds - where an opportunist thief can reach them.

l Don't take items back to the car and leave them there until you return later with even more, no matter how well you believe they may be protected and hidden, because someone may be watching and waiting for you to leave.

l When you get the presents home, don't leave them on view to prying eyes. While they look attractive to you under the Christmas tree they're even more appealing to opportunist thieves peering in uncurtained windows both in daylight and now the nights have drawn in.

Chief Insp Baldwin added: "Following these simple, golden rules will go a long way in decreasing crime and increasing Christmas enjoyment."