POLICE are urging people to be vigilant and not to leave items in their vehicles during the run up to Christmas.

There has been an increase in the number of thefts from motor vehicle offences being reported over the past few weeks.

Sergeant Beth Jones from Central Community Safety said: “We have seen a rise of theft from vehicles crimes, particularly in the Prestatyn area.

"A significant number of these reported crimes have involved either unlocked vehicles, items on display inside the vehicle or a combination of both, with the majority of these offences taking place overnight.”

“We do see these reports increase at this time of year with Christmas shopping in full swing. But stop and think how would you feel if the special present you had bought for Christmas was stolen? How would you get to work if your car window had been smashed to steel your lap top and cash? We are not trying to alarm people but we want to tell you what is actually happening in your communities so you can make changes and don’t make it easy!”

North Wales Police have been promoting their Big Easy strategy since April. It focusses on crimes that are all preventable as victims have made it EASY for thieves. The strategy nudges the public into considering their own routines and practices to see how they make it easy for thieves.

Thefts from vehicles is just one aspect of the strategy so for further advice and information please visit North Wales Police website https://www.north-wales.police.uk/campaigns/the-big-easy/big-easy-introduction

There have been a number of sightings reported people acting in a suspicious manner on driveways trying car doors.

If you do see anyone acting suspiciously please report it via 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or use the live webchat https://www.north-wales.police.uk/contact/live-chat-support