Police, a crime-prevention panel and business bosses have formed a partnership to beat car crime during the festive season.

And they are appealing to the public to help by being extra careful when leaving their cars parked while Christmas shopping.

Keighley police, the town's crime prevention panel and Cross Hills printers Dixon Target have joined forces to launch the vehicle crime initiative, which involves targeting cars in high risk areas.

Motorists will be warned to take extra precautions to make sure valuables are not left on display, tempting thieves to break in. Spearheading the initiative is PC Steve Littlewood, community watch co-ordinator, supported by Crime Prevention officer PC Adrian Foyston.

Print company Dixon Target has financed the 4,000 leaflets which will be left on cars to warn they are in a high risk area.

"We would advise motorists to park in well lit areas, use crime prevention measures such as steering locks, alarms and immobilisers and most importantly, do not leave anything visible in your car at any time which might tempt a thief," said PC Littlewood.

"Christmas shoppers should also take extra care and not leave bags of expensive presents in their vehicles.''

Police officers were out in Keighley yesterday, leafleting cars in vulnerable town centre areas.

PC Littlewood added: "Police officers who are called to a car which has been broken into will, of course, leaflet any other vehicles in the area to warn them."

He said the police were prepared to offer advice to the public on how to beat the burglar and protect property in the run-up to Christmas.

"We want Keighley residents to enjoy a happy, crime-free Christmas and New Year," added PC Foyston, who said the fight against car crime was a divisional priority.

Crime prevention advice and information can be obtained from PC Littlewood on 01535 617041 or PC Foyston on 01535 617039.

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