Chester police to hand out free “jingle” bells to prevent purse theft this Christmas

Dec 7 2009 Chester Chronicle

JINGLE bells are ringing out in Chester for a different reason this Christmas, thanks to the latest crime prevention initiative from Cheshire Police

Chester Inner Neighbourhood Policing team will be giving out bells for free in the city centre on Thursday, December 17 to reduce the seasonal increase in the theft of purses.

The bells can be attached to purses, bags and other personal items so shoppers are alerted if someone tries to steal them.

At this time of year, police traditionally see a rise in purse and wallet thefts as the shops become inundated with people looking for presents whose minds are not always concentrated on their own security.

PCSO Melissa Sawojka said: “The bells have been really affective in the past in preventing the theft of purses. They alert the owner to the pick pocket and prevent them from getting away with any valuables.

“While we are handing out bells to shoppers, we will also be reminding them about security and keeping their handbags zipped up and their purses and wallets out of sight.

“Simple measures like this really do make a difference in preventing crime.”

For more information on crime prevention or to talk to your local Neighbourhood Policing Team, call 0845 458 6384 or email Chester.inner.npt@cheshire.pnn.police.uk.