Police are warning people to be vigilant in their security measures as the festive season approaches.

With just over a month until Christmas the next few weeks will be a busy time for shoppers, businesses and home owners as they prepare for the big day.

This can lead to security becoming an after-thought or simply forgotten which presents thieves with opportunities to steal and profit form insecure properties.

Temporary chief inspector Dave Stalker said: "Each year we see someone’s Christmas ruined by thieves and what is worse is that some of these incidents could be prevented by taking simple precautions such as locking doors and windows.

"Criminals certainly do not stop because it is Christmas and they will see this as an opportune time of the year with people out shopping, on holiday or visiting family and friends. We certainly do not want thieves to steal your Christmas and there needs to be some thought given by members of the public as to what they do to ensure that their house is not burgled."

He said: "Be aware where your keeping your gifts and don’t advertise the fact that you have completed your Christmas shopping on social media as this may alert potential thieves. If you are out of the house please always check that your home is secure. If you are leaving your home for a length of time, let a trusted neighbour, friend or family member know to check everything is ok. Make sure that everything is locked before you leave and do not advertise that there will be an empty house."

Police are also urging businesses to ensure they are also not victims of acquisitive crime this Christmas.

T/DCI Stalker added: "Businesses, like shoppers, will be busy in the run up to Christmas and security can drift to the back of their thoughts, but it is so important that business owners and employees are careful not to give thieves any motivation. This means making sure that locks, bolts and latches are sufficient, and that intruder alarms are working.

"It also means being careful with cash - ensure that cashing up procedures are completed out of view of customers or passing members of the public, and that tills that are visible through windows out of hours are left open and empty. Ideally, you should avoid leaving cash on the premises

"We would like everyone to enjoy the Christmas period free from the stress and hurt caused by becoming a victim of crime."

Peter McCall, Cumbria's police and crime commissioner, said: "In the run up to Christmas there are many simple steps that people can take to protect their property and belongings, so I would urge everyone to take notice of this advice from the Constabulary. Being a victim of crime is awful at any time but is particularly distressing this time of year."