TOWNSFOLK are being warned to keep Christmas presents under wraps and away from view following an increase in burglaries in Redditch, writes Becky Procter.

Police have issued the warning after dealing with a spate of thefts which have resulted in Christmas presents actually being unwrapped and stolen from people's homes.

And police said the problem had already started with almost two weeks to go until Christmas and have urged people to hide presents away from windows.

Pc Richard Waterhouse, of Crabbs Cross police, said: We have had an increase in house burglaries because of the Christmas presents which are on show.

In one incident the thieves actually went in and unwrapped the presents, sorted through them and took the things they wanted away.

People are also being warned not to leave presents on view in cars, which are also a prime target during the Christmas period.

Pc Sally McMillan said: There have also been two incidents where thieves have entered houses and stolen car keys which were on show hanging up and then used the cars to take away all the things they wanted from the house.

In one incident, a £22,000 Volvo was stolen and in another a £12,000 Toyota was taken.''

She added: People should take car keys to bed and not leave them on show.

Anyone who sees anything suspicious can call Redditch police on 584888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.