Billericay's Neighbourhood Watch is urging people to remember that their Christmas joy could turn into wintry misery if they do not take appropriate security measures.

The area's latest Neighbourhood Watch newsletter lists all the precautions residents can take to ensure that Santa's presents don't get taken away in a burglar's sack.

Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator, Sandra Burton, said: "The dark evenings are here and all our homes are beginning to fill with the presents we have bought.

"The burglars know that and there will be the annual rise in break-ins.

"Take that extra care at this time of year to prevent yourself becoming a victim of crime."

During the winter period Neighbourhood Watch suggests people should use security lights, timers and internal lights to make their house look occupied.

As Christmas approaches it is also recommended that people should avoid leaving presents visible from outside and check all locks are working.

Christmas shopping is also seen as fraught with dangers and shoppers are reminded in the leaflet to keep all purchases and personal possessions out of sight if they are left in the car.

Wallets, purses and handbags are prime targets in busy shopping centres and again the Neighbourhood Watch is keen to remind people to keep a close eye on items like this.

Neighbourhood Watch is also concerned that when Christmas Day arrives people shouldn't forget the basics - all property, even presents, should be security marked with an ultra violet pen.

Free marker pens are available from your local police station and for those who are lucky enough to get a bike for Christmas a special marking day is being held at Billericay Police station from 10am to noon on Saturday January 6.

For more advice call Sandra Burton on 01277 631212 ext 45431.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.