I'VE succumbed -- the world's biggest hater of mobile phones actually got one for Christmas.

But I shan't be using it in the street, on public transport or in the shops.

In fact the pay-as-you-go piece will remain switched off in my bag and come out only in case of emergency. Hopefully the SIM card should last me a lifetime.

Obviously many other first timers have received the things, the streets are ringing with the sound of calls and unnecessary conversations like "I'm in Bradshawgate where are you?".

I've never liked them. Years ago when an MD asked if I wanted a car phone I refused. I like my privacy. I don't want my whereabouts tracked every minute of the day, having to explain where I am and what I'm doing. No thanks.

However, I don't think I'll be a victim of the ever increasing number of muggings for the phones. My piece of kit is not exactly the latest all singing, all dancing piece of technology.

But in a week when a teenager was shot in the head after an evil robber snatched her Nokia 3310 because it was better than his own, it makes sense to heed some security advice.

Mobile thefts have soared, they make up over 50 per cent of street crime and account for 36 per cent of all single items stolen.

It seems to me owners are not using their heads. The answer obviously, until makers agree to make them thief proof, is not to show them off in the street like a fashion accessory. Keep them stuffed in the bottom of your handbag like mine.