CHRISTMAS shoppers in Huddersfield are being warned to hide their purchases in the car boot.

Research by Green Flag Motoring Assistance found that a third of motorists surveyed left Christmas presents and valuables on show in their cars.

A spokeswoman for Green Flag, Melanie Denny, said items such as clothes were most commonly left on view and these were attractive to thieves, especially when they had a high re-sale value. She urged motorists out shopping to leave their cars instaffed car parks.

Sgt Tim O'Sullivan, of Huddersfield Police, is also asking drivers to take simple security steps.

"If you have to leave goods in the car, make sure you keep them locked securely in the boot.

"If you have a removable CD player, mobile phone or credit cards, take them out."