A POLICE operation to keep shoppers safe in Barry this Christmas is under way.

To keep shoppers safe and shoplifters at bay in the run up the Christmas, the Barry Neighbourhood Policing Team is stepping up patrols in the town centre.

Operation Hendon will involve officers carrying out high visibility patrols to prevent and deter thieves as well as to re-assure shoppers.

Neighbourhood police constable Gareth Holmes said: "We already have an excellent working relationship with the retailers of Barry but it is important to focus our efforts at this busy time of the year.

"Operation Hendon is all about ensuring Barry is a safe place for people to do their Christmas shopping and the presence of uniformed officers will contribute to a sense of safety but will also mean we are on hand to deal with any offenders.

"The message to shoplifters and thieves is that Barry is not an easy target for criminals."

Police advise that shoppers keep bags shut and secure at all times and do not carry items such as phones and purses in easy to access bag pockets. If your bag has a strap, wear it across your body and secure it, keep your purse or wallet close to your body or in a concealed front jacket pocket.

When using your mobile phone in public, be aware of those around you and avoid getting distracted, don’t make yourself an easy target for phone thieves.

Never leave your bag unattended or on the back of shopping trolleys or pushchairs and don’t be flash with your cash in public.