The top Christmas present targets for thieves this year

Comparison site Confused.com has urged Britons not to advertise their belongings and Christmas presents to burglars.

Together with security adviser and former criminal Michael Fraser, it has compiled a list of items that are most likely to be stolen this festive season, starting with iPads and iPhones.

Watches and jewellery, as well as smartphones, laptops and netbooks were also on the list, as were designer clothes.

Mr Fraser pointed out that all of these are easy to sell on or exchange for cash, so homeowners should keep them out of sight or even in a safe if possible.

Credit cards, debit cards and ID may also be vulnerable to burglary at this time of year, which may result in bank accounts being cleaned out.

Confused.com's Mark Gabriel added: "Make sure you have told your insurer about any significant items you buy over Christmas as you may wish to name them on your policy or check that you have sufficient cover."

Greater Manchester Police recently issued a warning about the threat of theft after a finding a list of 'Lined Up Grafts' in a street in Oldham detailing what a burglar intended to steal and how.

Compare home insurance and protect your most valuable possessions this Christmas