CHRISTMAS cards designed by a former adult comic illustrator are being used to teach students how to combat burglars.

Steve Donald, who worked as an artist on Viz, has designed the festive greeting cards, which are being distributed to students in Newcastle this week.

The cards give advice on how students can make their homes look inhabited while they are away on their Christmas break, as well as giving other security tips.

The initiative was funded by Newcastle Community Safety Partnership.

Development officer Laura Holbeck said: "Our campaign is timed to coincide with a peak time for burglaries and break-ins.

"The card serves as a reminder to students not to leave their valuables home alone this Christmas."

North-East crime reduction official Alan Brown said: "Students should be aware that they are especially vulnerable to burglars, but that a few simple precautions are often all that is needed to discourage thieves."