SOUTH Hams police are reminding people to keep themselves and their possessions safe over Christmas with Operation Reindeer.

Sgt Dave Green, based in Kingsbridge, said: ‘We know from experience that acquisitive crime tends to rise during the run up to Christmas, as opportunist thieves know that good quality, high value items are likely to be found in houses and cars.

‘We also know that crime is one of the things people naturally forget about at times of celebration, but to become a victim of crime at this time of year can be doubly distressing for families. Police are therefore urging people to keep possessions out of sight, to lock doors and close windows, and if you have an alarm, set it.

‘If you are away over the festive period consider asking a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your property.

‘Equally, the fact that we are relaxed and enjoying ourselves over the Christmas and New Year period, sometimes goes hand in hand with excessive drinking.

‘South Hams police would like to remind people that drinking too much can easily turn a fun night out into a nightmare, ending in possible injury, assault, losing your valuables, or becoming a victim of crime in other ways.

‘A seat in a pub can quickly become a seat in casualty or even a police cell.’