COUPLES getting hitched this summer are being warned to keep their wedding plans secret. The security advice comes days after cruel-hearted thieves made off with Ipswich newlyweds' wedding gifts when they raided their home.

COUPLES getting hitched this summer are being warned to keep their wedding plans secret.

The security advice comes days after cruel-hearted thieves made off with Ipswich newlyweds' wedding gifts when they raided their home.

Sylvia and Lhouari Marouf were devastated to return from their reception to discover thieves had ransacked their Spenser Road home.

Now crime reduction experts are warning couples to take extra care on their happy day.

Tracey Hardy from Suffolk's Crime Reduction Panel, said: "Couples should make sure the presents are not on view by the door. If possible try to put them in a far corner so people have to cross the room to get to them.

"Even ask the venue if they have someone who could watch over the presents.

"Thieves only have to dress like guests to be admitted and could easily take gifts without being noticed."

According to police, thieves have been known to phone department stores posing as guests in order to find out the location of the reception.

Care should be taken not to advertise the location of the reception or the length of the honeymoon to prevent break-ins to empty homes.

Department stores also keep details of the wedding list close to their chest.

Leisha Klein, manager of Allders' wedding list, said: "We keep all information confidential other than the name of the bride and groom. No members of the public can access the list."

To avoid the attention of gifts being delivered prior to the wedding, most presents are sent out on the couple's return from honeymoon.

But for newlyweds Mr and Mrs Marouf the advice came too late.

The 37-year-old new bride said: "All the household stuff can be replaced but my wedding presents and cards can't be replaced. It's just sick.

"We hadn't even opened the presents. We were leaving them at home until after the reception."

Anyone with information about the break in, discovered at 1am on Sunday August 11, should contact Ipswich police on 01473 613500.