POLICE are urging the public to be on guard against car thieves in the run up to Christmas.

The warning comes after an increase in thefts from cars in the Bank Top and Wensley Fold area of Blackburn.

Officers in Woodnook, Accrington, and surroun-ding areas are also recording a rise in theft from cars and burglaries as a result of people leaving their property insecure.

Police Sergeant Jason Middleton said: “Rece-ntly, we have seen an increase in thefts from cars in Blackburn.

“And I urge people to keep their property lock-ed and secure and to not leave anything at all on display, such as Sat Nav systems and Christmas presents.

“If you have to leave an item in your car, make sure it’s out of sight by locking it in the boot.”