POLICE in Cumbria are stepping up patrols around cash-in-transit deliveries in the run up to Christmas.

The number and value of cash deliveries by security vans rises during the Christmas period, so police say they will increase patrols along key delivery routes and drop off points to prevent them being targeted by robbers. The operation will be launched tomorrow.

Neighbourhood police officers will target their patrols to coincide with deliveries and roads policing officers will provide a visible presence by following security vans on parts of their journey around the county.

Police will also work with CCTV operators to identify suspicious activity and provide advice and guidance to the business community to help prevent them from becoming victims of crime.

Chief Inspector Kevin Greenhow, who is coordinating the operation to protect cash-in-transit deliveries, said: “Christmas is fast approaching and this is traditionally one of the busiest times of year for cash-in-transit robberies in the UK. "This type of crime is quite rare in Cumbria, and we want it to stay that way.

“We are determined to keep our communities safer by targeting, deterring and disrupting criminals who carry out attacks on cash deliveries at commercial and financial premises.

“The key to preventing these crimes is to show offenders that we are watching them and that if they target deliveries in Cumbria they will be caught.

“Our officers will be keeping a close eye on cash deliveries and we would urge business owners and members of the community to report suspicious activity to police.

“Cash-in-transit attacks, while often perceived as a business crime, are not victimless. "Last year alone, over 1,000 crew members were attacked in the UK while performing this essential public service, many suffering severe physical and psychological effects.

“If you think a security van is being followed, contact us immediately, and if you spot suspicious activity around a delivery point, let us know. "It could be offenders staking out a future target, or it could be a crime in action.

“If you spot suspicious activity call us on 0845 33 00 247, or if you think a crime is in action call 999.”

The operation to support cash-in-transit deliveries forms part of a national campaign by police forces across the UK, which is codenamed Operation Safercash.