Shoppers attending Christmas markets in St Albans and Harpenden were given festive crime prevention advice from local volunteer police cadets.

Herts Advertiser: Crime prevention advice at the Christmas market.Crime prevention advice at the Christmas market. (Image: Archant)

The cadets were in attendance alongside officers from the Safer Neighbourhood Teams, offering advice on how people can protect themselves from purse dippers while out and about, and how to keep their homes more secure during the darker evenings.

They also gave out free security light timers and purse chains.

The cadets were also joined by Neighbourhood Watch liaison officer Derrick Sweeney, who spoke to visitors about the OWL messaging system, which informs people about crimes in their local area.

Sergeant Steve Alison, who leads the volunteer police cadets, said: “These events were a great way to meet with local residents and get valuable crime prevention advice across. The feedback was very positive and we look forward to attending further community events in the New Year.”

Herts Advertiser: Crime prevention advice at the Christmas market.Crime prevention advice at the Christmas market. (Image: Archant)