IT may be the season to be jolly, but police are warning people not to be victims of the seasonal rise in crime.

Every year, the run-up to Christmas brings a rise in burglaries, as thieves target expensive presents.

This year, police hope the usual Christmas tales of woe will be avoided by making people more aware of security.

A mobile "cop shop" is being set up in Bishop Auckland Market Place from December 11 to 22, to give crime prevention advice.

Community Safety Officer PC Don Luke, from Bishop Auckland said: "It is a distressing time of year for some people. Some things tend to get overlooked, and security is one of them, because people's minds are on other things."

PC Luke said there were a number of measures people could take to make sure they do not become another Christmas crime statistic.

He said people should note identification numbers of electrical items before they were gift-wrapped. Presents should not be left under a Christmas tree, where they could be seen from outside.

If a house is to be left empty during the evening, a light or television set should be left on. Doors and windows should be kept locked.

Cars full of Christmas shopping are a magnet for thieves. If you leave bags in the boot of your car, make sure no one is loitering in the car park watching you.

The Christmas period brings an increase in the number of alarm companies canvassing homes with high pressure sales techniques. Consult police or insurers before buying from door-to-door or telephone canvassers