OFFICERS from the Watford Safer Neighbourhood Team have been working closely with licensed premises in the town centre to combat pick – pocketing.

Recently there has been an increase in the number of incidents where items such as mobile phones have been taken from handbags during a night out.

Police Community Support Officer for Watford town centre Carol Pengelly has been placing posters and stickers in clubs, pubs and bars around the town asking people to keep an eye on their belongings.

Posters and stickers which are displayed throughout premises show a cartoon of a woman dancing with the message 'Who has their hands on your belongings? Keep an eye on your handbag at all times.'

PCSO Pengelly said: “This is a proactive initiative which has seen us putting up posters and stickers to get our message across.

"We do not want to frighten people as crime is low but we cannot be complacent. We can help them help themselves from becoming victims of crime through a simple message – do not leave your handbag out of your sight.”

Brian Mason, Manager of Oceana, one of the many premises where the posters and stickers have been displayed, said: “This is an excellent initiative and we welcome any assistance from the police, partner agencies and other licensed premises to help make Watford an even safer place to socialise.

"A combination of posters and stickers along with verbal communication will ensure customers are vigilant but can continue to enjoy and relaxed and safe night out at Oceana.”