PEOPLE in Hartlepool are being urged to take steps to avoid the risk of Christmas heartbreak at the hands of burglars and thieves.

Victim Support workers in the town are concerned that many people who do not have bank accounts are keeping large sums of money in their homes, particularly in the run-up to Christmas.

They have joined forces with Moneywise Community Banking to promote the bank as a safe and accessible alternative to storing money at home.

A spokesman from Victim Support said: "I deal with a lot of crime victims who always thought that it would not happen to them, but it did.

"Having your home burgled and property stolen at any time is a traumatic and devastating experience, but it can also be so much worse at Christmas.

"Imagine having to tell your children you cannot afford to buy any presents because your savings have been stolen.

"I would urge people who tend to keep large sums of money in their homes to think again and consider opening an account with the community bank."

Anyone wanting to join should take two forms of identification and a £1 membership fee to the bank, in Avenue Road, in the town, which is open Mondays to Fridays, from 10am to 4pm.

Alternatively, call (01429) 863542.