SUFFOLK: A festive message is being sent out by the county’s police force to ensure everyone has a happy and safe Christmas.

This year’s seasonal campaign follows the 12 Days of Christmas theme and, starting today, Suffolk Constabulary will be offering advice on a different type of crime each weekday up until mid-December.

They will also be reminding people that “criminals don’t take a holiday over the Christmas period”.

The first topic they will be focusing on is burglary, and officers are out and about today offering practical tips on how to protect yourself and your home.

Chief Inspector Kerry Pauling warned revellers and shoppers not to let their guard down as get into the festive spirit and reminded criminals that officers will be stepping up patrols.

“Although we want people to enjoy themselves, it is vital that everyone thinks about their safety. People must take responsibility for their actions when at home or out and about. Criminals should be under no illusions. If they commit crime this Christmas, they will face the season behind bars.”

Throughout the week a 60-second film produced to highlight the drink responsibly campaign – which shows what can happen if you let your guard down on a night out or misbehave – will be playing in Ipswich’s Tower Ramparts centre.

Chief Insp Pauling believes the film, which will also feature on the force’s website and Facebook page, will strike a chord with many people and make them think about the police advice.

“The message we’re trying to give to people is: Keep it safe, keep it real and drink responsibly. Don’t risk a criminal record for the new year,” said the officer.

As well as burglary and responsible drinking, other themes include shoplifting, under-age drinking and domestic abuse.

Earlier this month we reported how Suffolk police plan to send Christmas cards to notorious shoplifters warning them it will be jingle cells if they get up to their old tricks during the festive season. As part of a bid to deter the pilferers, the special cards will be hand-delivered by police direct to their homes.

n Have you been a victim of crime at Christmas? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail evening starletters@eveningstar.co.uk