Shoppers urged to stay on guard

SHOPPERS at Warrington are being urged by police to keep a close eye on their belongings as they do their Christmas shopping.
Officers are warning “Don’t let thieves spoil your Christmas celebrations.”
They advise people to keep a close eye on their purse or wallet, and ensure all bags and pockets are closed.
Those who visit the busy Gemini Retail Park are being warned to take extra care and follow crime reduction advice.
Police Community Support Officer Neil Samuel said: “It is that time of year again when shoppers are often distracted – and weighed down with shopping bags – while they are out and about buying gifts.
“We are urging people to be alert and on their guard over the festive period – be aware of your surroundings and ensure that you keep a close eye on your belongings at all times. The advice is simple – make sure you know exactly where your handbag, wallet or purse is and keep all bags tightly closed and all pockets securely fastened at all times.”
Officers are focusing patrols around Gemini, which is traditionally very busy throughout the festive period. They are carrying out high-visibility patrols at key times, talking to shoppers and issuing crime reduction advice.
PCSO Samuel said: “The temptation might be there to leave bags full of gifts on the back seat of the car while you nip back to the shops to get something else but it only takes an opportunist thief minutes to break into your car and snatch your valuables.”
A mobile CCTV unit will be used in the area and shoppers are being urged to be aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity.
People are also warned to be careful when withdrawing money from outdoor cash machines, to ensure they protect their PIN number – and to park in a well lit area and be aware of their surroundings.