CHRISTMAS shoppers in the North-East are being urged to be more security-conscious and not leave newly-bought presents on display in their cars.
Spot checks conducted for vehicle glass repair company Autoglass on 1,000 cars parked at major retail centres across Britain found 53 per cent had gifts or shopping bags on open display.
Autoglass, which deals with 700 victims of car crime every day, has teamed up with police to try to prevent the rise in car crime that happens every Christmas.
They are recommending people:
* Park in well-lit, open locations such as under a lamp, or close to CCTV cameras
* Lock presents in the boot or glove compartment, or carry them
* Close car windows and sunroofs and remove the ignition key when leaving the car, even when filling up with petrol.
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