MORE police officers are set to patrol distribution hotspots in Warrington as part of a Christmas crime crackdown.

Cheshire Police has launched its annual operation to support delivery drivers and couriers over the festive period.

With Christmas just weeks away and more people ordering online than ever before, officers will be visiting key locations in the town, such as Omega, and engaging with delivery drivers to provide reassurance and offer key crime prevention advice.

As part of the December-long operation, plans have been put in place that will see both marked and unmarked police vehicles patrolling key routes and roads near to distribution centres.

DCI Clare Coleman, who is leading the operation, said: “With more people choosing to order their Christmas presents online, there are more delivery vehicles out on our streets than ever before.

“So far, here in Cheshire we have only seen a very small number of incidents involving thefts from couriers and delivery vehicles, and we are committed to doing all we can to keep it this way.

“As part of this operation, we are also encouraging couriers to play their part by ensuring they take all the necessary steps to reduce their chances of becoming a victim.”

Such steps for delivery drivers include ensuring your vehicle is in a proper operating condition and calling the police if you spot a suspicious vehicle following you.

When out delivering, consider using alternative routes rather than always going the same way if possible, ensure your phone is fully charged and avoid areas that are not well lit.

If you feel threatened, activate the panic alarm on your vehicle to draw attention to the situation and always lock your vehicle, even if you are only leaving it for a short period of time.

Make sure that no valuables are left on display when leaving your vehicle and consider installing a tracker.

DCI Coleman added: “As well as police, local residents also have a role to play by reporting any suspicious activity and always ensuing that somebody is at home when any parcels are delivered.

“By working together, we can all help to reduce the chances of falling victim to these unscrupulous thieves and help ensure everyone gets their deliveries this Christmas.”

Anyone looking to report any suspicious activity is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101, or 999 in an emergency, or visit cheshire.police.uk/tua/