COUNCILLORS are urging shoppers to 'boot the loot' and safeguard their gift shopping in the countdown to Christmas.

Congleton Borough Council's community safety manager Tony Potts is spearheading a campaign to make people aware of the dangers of theft from cars.

From Monday, community wardens, in partnership with the Congleton Community Action Team, have been patrolling car parks and checking on vulnerable vehicles in Middlewich.

The campaign aims to reduce the fear of crime and stop opportunist thieves from helping themselves to residents' property.

Tony said: "Don't let thieves spoil your Christmas. Store presents safely in the boot of the car so that they are not visible, and be sure to lock you vehicle and use an alarm if you have one."