Motorists out doing their Christmas shopping need to be on their guard against thieves if they do not want to end up making a car insurance claim, Surrey police have warned.

Drivers are being encouraged to keep bags - or other signs of presents, like wrapping paper - out of sight in unattended vehicles.

Officers explained a bag of Christmas goodies on the back seat of a car would make a thief's day.

The police also warned motorists to be wary of criminals who target car parks, waiting for people to drop off bags before heading back to the shops.

Crime reduction advisor Jamie Robinson said: "It is important for people to be particularly vigilant at this time of year."

In related news, motorists who have had to make a car insurance claim after being targeted by thieves may welcome the news a police crackdown in Wigan and Leigh led to three arrests recently.

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