Officers are giving out the warning cards to Christmas shoppers

Officers in Aldershot, Fleet and Farnborough are also handing out cartoon Christmas cards urging shoppers to guard against opportunist car theft, which they say increases at this time of year.

A poster campaign in shops will reinforce home the safety message.

Police say they are safeguarding Christmas fun, not spoiling it.

Crime reduction officer Penny Tarrant said: "One set of cards warns people that opportunist car thieves will steal their gifts if they get a chance.

"The other set reminds people to do the same thing at home.

"One important thing to remember is not to put gifts under the tree as that is just an open invitation to thieves.

"I really hope people will be careful with their gifts and that they enjoy this fun way of giving them an extra reminder."