MONMOUTH Police Station is warning Christmas shoppers to be wary of pick-pockets after some recent incidents.

Shoppers are urged to be conscious of their belongings and to not leave purses and other items on display in open bags or pockets.

The town police station is giving away bells for purses, lanyards and even magnetic credit card covers to protect from unwanted contactless machines. Pop into the station to collect these free of charge.

Police are also warning traders to be vigilant against fraudulent £50 notes, which are still a risk around town with reports of notes used in a local store just this week.