Police are rolling out an operation in Bury town centre as Christmas approaches to help stop an increase in thefts and robberies.

Around 100,000 extra visitors are expected to visit the town centre over the festive period and Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has launched Operation Dasher to protect shoppers.

More officers will be in the town centre to offer a more visible presence and taking a "zero tolerance approach in dealing with criminality".

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GMP offers crime prevention advice during the shopping season too.

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This includes:

• Always make sure you lock your car whenever you leave it

• Do not leave valuable items or Christmas presents on show in your car

• Keep your wallet or handbag securely fastened

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• If you carry a purse or bag hold it under your arm or in front of you

• Always be aware of your surroundings and who is around you when shopping

• It is best not to carry large sums of money, if you can, pay by debit or credit card

• Never leave items of value unattended in a trolley, pram or elsewhere.