POLICE are working to keep Chester shoppers safe from pickpockets.

Dec 22 2008 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

To combat the Festive thieves city centre Police and Chester Against Business Crime have put on weeks of initiatives to raise awareness.

Sgt Mandy Shaw of Cheshire Police said: “Around Christmas time there is an increase in crime of this kind, and that has always been the case.

“Earlier in shopping season we held a purse snatching and shop lifting awareness day in the city centre. We handed out about 1,000 bells for shoppers to put on their bags to prevent them being tampered with as well as loads of leaflets to people in the area asking them to be more aware of their property and to be responsible.

“We have been working closely with Chester Against Business Crime and the shops in the city to stop shoplifters making retailers Christmas a misery.

“It has been very busy with late night shopping and we have been employing dedicated patrols in the city centre to reassure the public and be seen.”

Sgt Shaw has the following advice:

BLOB Keep your purse or wallet safely tucked away

BLOB Make sure your handbag is with you at all times

BLOB Keep your mobile phone out of view in crowded areas