POLICE are reminding people to be quick off the mark when it comes to making sure gifts and new goods bought over the festive period are security coded.

Wayne Cooke, Harm Reduction Inspector for West Mercia Police, said: “After the festive season houses are full of brand new things, making them a potential Aladdin’s cave for burglars; but if people take a few moments to postcode their property it will help trace the goods if you are unfortunate enough to be burgled.

“Marking property also acts as a deterrent to would be thieves. If they know your belongings have been marked they are more likely to look elsewhere because if they are caught in possession of property which the police can prove has been stolen it will mean more trouble for them.”

“People might even consider including giving an ultra-violet marker pen as a small gift so people can mark up their property as soon as they get it. We advise that they write their postcode or address on the base or rear of the item.

"This is invisible to the naked eye, but shows up under ultraviolet light enabling the police to trace the rightful owner when property is recovered."

"We are also advising people to consider registering their valuable items on the national property register www.immobilise.com. 

"This is a free service which is backed by the Home Office. If you are unfortunate to be burgled, and your property is recovered you have a better chance of having your things returned to you as police will check the immobilise register."

But he added the best way to avoid becoming a target for burglars was for people to make sure their homes were safe and secure.