Don’t give thieves a merry Christmas, warn Chester police

Dec 5 2008 Chester Chronicle

DON’T give thieves an early present this Christmas - that’s the message from police in Chester.

Officers are calling on all shoppers in the town to give some thought to security while they are out buying their presents.

Inspector Mel Williams, of Chester Inner Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “Many people have already started buying their Christmas presents, but we approaching that time of year when the shops start to get really busy and shoppers are weighed down with endless bags of presents.

“I know it can be tempting when out shopping to return to the car, drop off some of the presents and then head back to the shops.

“It is something most people will do at some point in the run up to the big day. Sadly it is a practice criminals are aware of and each year we see someone’s Christmas ruined when their presents are stolen.”

This year though police in Chester are determined to make Christmas an unhappy one for the criminal fraternity and are asking all shoppers to take steps to protect their presents.

Inspector Ian Thorp of Chester Outer NPU added: “Ideally I would ask all shoppers not to keep gifts in the car if it is going to be left unattended as thieves will often hang around car parks on the lookout for people doing this.

“If you do have to leave presents and return to the shops please make sure you are parked in a well-lit and heavily populated area which will make life difficult for any prospective thief. Also, when leaving presents unattended, make sure they are kept out of sight.

“But the best way to give thieves a torrid time this Christmas is for the community to come together, remain vigilant, and watch out for one another.

“These crooks operate in public places and by keeping a watchful eye for people acting suspiciously and reporting any such activity, shoppers can make a real difference.”

If you have any information about thefts in the area or spot anyone acting suspiciously please contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.