THE trend for early Christmas shopping has caused a huge rise in car crime as thieves stalk Blackburn town centre on the look out for presents.

Police have revealed that already 10 motorists have had presents stolen from their cars -- prompting senior officers to put extra patrols on in town centre car parks.

CD players, computer games, toiletries and mobile phones have been taken after they were left on view.

Sergeant Mark Vaughton, in charge of the town's car crime investigation team, said: "Whilst shoppers are being well organised by doing the Christmas shopping early we have unfortunately already experienced a rise in car crime.

"We do usually expect this sort of opportunist crime to rise during the festive season, but this year it seems as if this rise has come early.

"Shoppers need to be aware of how they sometimes make themselves easy victims of this avoidable crime."

Sgt Vaughton's advice is for people to simply not leave items on view.

He added: "We will do our bit to ensure that the town centre is a safe and crime-free place to visit this Christmas, but we do need shoppers to keep all their presents safe.

"Put things in the boot and be aware of your surroundings. Was anyone watching you as you returned to drop off shopping in your car before going back for more?

"If so, or if you feel suspicious about any activity, contact the police. We will not be far away. But please, help us to help you."

Sgt Vaughton is also planning to send his officers to visit all known car criminals to warn that they will be keeping a close eye on them this Christmas, which is an annual tactic.

The additional police patrols will particularly target late-night shopping. Anyone with information about the recent spate of thefts is asked to call Blackburn police on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.