Winchester police are warning illegal traders to stay out of the city.

The police and city centre shops are making a big effort to rid the streets of illegal trading in the run-up to Christmas.

The number of illicit pedlars rises steeply as the festive season approaches.

City centre sergeant Jeff Bird said: "Illegal traders are not welcome in Winchester. Those who are caught trading will initially be moved on. However, we do have powers to seize goods and make arrests."

From Thursday, November 18, when the Christmas lights are switched on, police will be out in force to ensure all street trading is legal.

City Centre Manager Graham Love said: "Unlicensed street traders contribute nothing to the local economy. Often traders are passing off shoddy, inferior quality goods to the unsuspecting public and consumers often have no way of redress.

"Winchester has a vibrant market tradition and licensed street traders add quality and choice to the retail offering in the city," he said.

The council is issuing street trading permits for special Christmas events.

All proceeds will be donated to the local Magpie Cancer Campaign at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital.

Sgt Bird said: "We want all traders and shoppers to be aware that illegal traders will target Winchester over the Christmas period and that by working together we can crack down on this practice."

Anyone aware of illegal trading taking place in the city is asked to report it to the police on 0845 045 4545.

Shoppers are being warned to keep an eye on their purses in the run-up to Christmas.

Police have had reports of at least four cases of purses being snatched in the last two weeks.

In all four cases the thefts took place in and around the High Street.