Barking and Dagenham Council have issued some safety tips aimed at keeping its residents and their property safe this Christmas.

The ‘Christmas Crime Menu’ leaflet is being given out by the police’s Safer Neighbourhood Teams and is also available online.

Cllr Jeanne Alexander, cabinet member for crime, justice and communities, said: “There is a lot that people can do for themselves to help prevent them being the victim of crime.

“A burglary is always a horrible crime that leaves the victim feeling violated and upset, but to fall prey to this during the festive period can be even more devastating.”

Ch Insp Richard Goodwin, of Barking and Dagenham Police, added: “Burglars view the Christmas holiday very differently to the rest of us, for them it is a time to maximise their ill gotten gains and cash out on the property that you have worked hard for.

“Keeping your home well lit, making use of all locks and being suspicious of anyone who approaches you in the street can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to burglars or thieves this Christmas.”

To see the leaflet online, visit www.lbbd.gov.uk/xmascrimemenu