People heading out for last-minute Christmas shopping this weekend have been warned to stay alert, as new figures show theft levels are running at record levels across the UK. With Saturday expected to be the busiest shopping day of the year, crime experts say crowded high streets, transport hubs and festive events create the perfect conditions for opportunistic thieves - particularly targeting visible valuables like watches.

Official figures show shoplifting offences have hit their highest level on record this year, while "theft from the person" - which includes pickpocketing and snatch thefts - has risen sharply, especially in major cities. And according to watch experts, the festive rush significantly increases the risk for shoppers wearing or carrying new timepieces.

Danny Toffel, CEO of Watches2U, says the risk of watch theft rises sharply in specific UK shopping and transport hotspots during the final weekend before Christmas.

He said: "Areas with very high footfall are consistently the most risky. In London, places like Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, Leicester Square and major stations such as King's Cross and Euston are well-known hotspots for personal theft, especially at this time of year."

He added that similar patterns are seen in other major cities.

"Large shopping centres and city-centre districts in Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool also see increased theft in the run-up to Christmas, particularly around main shopping streets and transport hubs."

According to Toffel the biggest danger comes from simple distraction thefts.

He added: "This weekend is especially risky because people are rushing, juggling bags, checking phones and often wearing brand-new watches straight out of the box. Thieves rely on those moments of distraction - and busy shopping areas give them exactly that."

Unlike phones or wallets, watches are often worn openly and can be quickly removed, making them an attractive target during busy periods.

"Watches are small, valuable and highly portable," Toffel said. "Even mid-priced watches can be resold quickly, which is why they're frequently targeted during peak shopping and party seasons.

"People assume theft only happens late at night or in quiet areas, but many incidents occur in broad daylight on busy streets, trains or outside shops."

But to avoid falling victim there are a number of simple precautions people can take when heading out this weekend.

Toffel said: "If you're buying a watch as a gift, keep it concealed and avoid wearing it until you're home.

"Be mindful in crowds, keep sleeves covering your wrist where possible, and stay alert in busy areas like stations, pubs and shopping centres."

He added: "A little extra awareness during the final shopping rush can make all the difference. Christmas should be about enjoying the season - not dealing with the aftermath of theft."