BROMSGROVE police are calling on townsfolk to be 'wise men and women' with their Christmas shopping.

"Members of the law-abiding public bearing gifts are a welcome seasonal sight for crimi-nals," said crime risk manager, PC Stan Baker, of Bromsgrove police.

He added: "There is a considerable amount the public can do to ensure they have a happy Christmas and that all presents get to the people they are intended for and not to opportunist thieves."

Police say three wise moves are:

l When out shopping make doubly sure that your personal belongings, particularly hand-bags, wallets, credit cards and mobile phones, are not carried or placed - even for only a few seconds - where an opportunist thief can reach them.

l When out shopping, do not take items back to the car and leave them there until you return later with even more - no matter how well you believe they may be protected and hidden, because someone may be watching and waiting for you to leave.

l When you get the presents home, do not leave them on view to prying eyes. While they look attractive to you under the Christmas tree - they are even more appealing to opportunist thieves peering in windows.