CUMBRIA Police are encouraging members of the public to stay 'vigilant' and to ensure they keep their valuable items safe whilst out and about.

It comes after a study found pickpocketing rates in Barrow-in-Furness had increased by 400 per cent since 2021.

According to research carried out by security experts, Get Licensed, the number of recorded ‘theft from a person’ crimes increased from three in 2021 to 15 in 2024.

The rise in cases is one of the most significant in the country.

See how Barrow compared to other local authorities in the UK below.

READ MORE: New research shows dramatic increase in pickpocketing rates in Barrow since 2021

A spokesperson from Cumbria Police said: “We know the theft of personal items can be upsetting and we would encourage people to take every step were possible to secure and conceal valuable items whilst out and about.

“Criminals are often opportunists and target people whilst they are distracted, so ensure if you have valuable items on show that you a vigilant to people around you.”

More advice can be found here - Don’t let them pocket it | Cumbria Police