Watch out.. thieves about

Shoppers are being warned to beware of opportunist thieves over the festive period.

Safer communities officer PC Lucie Black, of East Kilbride police, is urging people to take extra care while doing their Christmas shopping.

PC Black said:“Please ensure that your personal items such as bags, purses and wallets are secured safely and out of sight at all times.

“Use cash machines in well lit, non-secluded areas and stay alert. Check the machine hasn’t been tampered with, hide your PIN number at all times and keep your cash out of view.

“Look after your shopping and don’t keep any presents in the car for longer than you have to and always keep them out of view.

“By following these few basic steps we can reduce the opportunity presented to criminals during this busy shopping period.”