The Metropolitan Police is reminding people to protect their homes from burglary during the Christmas period.

In December, there is traditionally an increase in burglary across London, with 189 on Christmas Eve alone last year.

To reduce the chance of becoming a victim, the Met is advising people to keep gifts and valuables out of view of the window, and consider using a timer to turn on lights or your TV if you’re out to make it appear like your home is occupied.

You should also take care on social media by not showing you are somewhere else or posting a countdown to a winter holiday.

After Christmas, boxes and rubbish should be disposed of discreetly, so as not to give away the fact you have valuable items in the house.

You can also protect against distraction burglaries by always asking for identification and not opening the door until you are happy with who they say they are.