Police have issued a warning after a spate of mobile phone thefts in bars and clubs in Preston.

Thieves are targeting iPhones from handbags and tables while the owners are distracted.

Preston Police have issued some tips on keeping your phone safe on a night out.

A spokesman said: “Preston is still a great night out but let’s not make it easy for thieves.”

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They advise:

1. Use a zip up handbag and keep it zipped.

2. Don’t leave your bag unattended. If you’re going outside for some fresh air or going to the toilets, take your bag with you.

3. Shorten the strap on any bag you carry.

4. Don’t hang your bag off the back of a chair or leave it next to you on the floor.

5. Report anything suspicious like people paying a lot of attention to unattended handbags to the door staff.

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