Shoppers and revellers are being advised of the 12 best ways to avoid

becoming a victim of crime in the West End during the run up to this

year's festivities.

As shoppers make the last dash for Christmas gifts and people are out

celebrating, police in Westminster are out in force advising them on how

to stay safe.

The anti-crime initiative is aimed at deterring criminals who believe

its rich pickings to operate in the heart of London at a time when

millions of people visit the area.

Teams of officers are distributing leaflets containing their Yule

messages to prevent people becoming victims of crimes such as bag and

mobile phone thefts in the West End and Soho area.

Inspector Malcolm Barnard, leading this year's operation, today said:

"The West End remains an extremely safe place to shop and visit. We

want to ensure that visitors have a good time and it's the criminals who

fear coming into the area. Officers will be out and about advising

shoppers during this busy time and to respond to crime in the area."

The 12 Ways Of Christmas to avoid becoming a victim of crime are:

Going out....

1. Place valuables in a bag or front pocket that you can secure, rather

than leaving phones or wallets in your back pocket.

2. Keep bags, coats and other personal belongings with you in cafes,

bars and restaurants. Do not leave them unattended.

3. Do not leave drinks unattended in clubs and bars.

4. Cover your PIN number when using ATMs or paying in bars and clubs.

5. Watch of people trying to distract you if you are using an ATM

6. Stay aware of your surroundings and being approached by anyone you do

not know. Pickpockets operate in central London.

Heading home....

7. Think ahead and plan your journey, avoiding deserted areas.

8. Only use taxis that have been licensed and pre-booked. These are

easily recognised by a licence on display.

9. Try to avoid walking alone at night and keep to well-lit main roads

where possible. Try to avoid short cuts like alleyways, waste ground and

wooded, bushy areas.

10. Stay Alert: be aware of what's going on around you. It is always

worth letting someone know where you are going, the route you intend to

take and when you expect to return.

11. Try to avoid wearing headphones - your ability to hear traffic,

strangers or potential trouble is severely restricted.

12. When travelling by bus or train try to avoid using stations in

isolated places. When possible sit near the driver on buses, and on

trains make sure you sit in a compartment where there are other people.