POLICE will be stepping up patrols in Bridgwater, Highbridge and Burnham town centres leading up to Christmas to help people shop safely.

PCs and PCSOs will be clamping down on shoplifters and antisocial behaviour in the town to ensure shoppers have a positive shopping experience.

A mobile police station will be popping up at various times where shoppers can drop in and meet the beat team and raise any concerns.

Police cadets will also be distributing leaflets and useful information on how to protect your belongings.

Insp Andrew Pritchard said: “We want everyone to enjoy their shopping in an atmosphere that feels safe.

"We will be reducing the impact of anti-social behaviour and enforcing the town’s alcohol ban in Bridgwater. We are working closely with Sedgemoor District council and CCTV to identify potential problem areas.”

The beat team will also be issuing advice to people who leave goods on display in parked cars.

Sgt Chris Walls said: “Our team will be identifying vulnerable vehicles where people have left valuables on display.

We will be photographing the cars and writing to the owners issuing some tips on how to protect their property.”

Police are also encouraging people to ‘lighten up’ their homes and take some very simple steps to protect possessions:

  • Make sure your home looks occupied by leaving lights on.
  • Keep Christmas gifts out of sight and don't leave packaging on display outside your home.
  • Download tracking software on to phones, laptops and any other gadgets.

Police statistics show that most break-ins are committed by opportunist thieves, and in a quarter of cases they gain access through an unlocked door or open window so even if you are popping to see a neighbour make sure you lock your doors and close windows.

For more information on how to stay safe this winter visit avonandsomerset.police.uk