DEVON and Cornwall Police are warning last minute Christmas shoppers to empty their car before someone else does.

DEVON and Cornwall Police are warning last minute Christmas shoppers to empty their car before someone else does.

In a bid to prevent misery caused by opportunist thieves, officers have launched a campaign to help reduce theft from vehicles this Christmas.

Over the festive period Devon and Cornwall Police are recommending people do not leave presents and valuables on display in parked cars.

In a bid to crackdown on car crime, police across Devon and Cornwall are continuing to patrol car parks and proactively using posters and leaflets to advise car owners how to take care over the festive period.

Bob Bunney, the force crime reduction advisor for Devon and Cornwall police, said: the campaign aims to remind shoppers that any Christmas presents on show in their vehicles could be a target for criminals.

Officers said crime could be avoided if the public followed police advice.

Mr Bunney said: "Theft from vehicles in Devon and Cornwall is low compared to other areas of the country, however we are entering a period of time where this type of crime traditionally peaks.

"To avoid the consequences of becoming a victim of crime everyone must continue to act responsibly and remain vigilant to reduce the opportunities for crime".

Devon and Cornwall Police recommend the following advice whileout and about in your vehicle over the festive period:

Lock your vehicle at all times

Close windows and doors

Don't leave presents and valuables on display

Property mark your possessions