People are urged to keep a close eye on their possessions as pickpockets continue to work in Harrow town centre.

Harrow police recently placed signs in the town centre that read: "Beware pickpockets are operating in this area, Keep your belongings close and be very vigilant."

Crime figures from the Met police showed that 24 thefts were reported in April 2015, and by September that year, the figure has decreased to 15.

Despite police warnings, the figure dropped from 305 reported thefts from a person in 2015-2016 to 163 in 2016.

Statistics from a 24 month period to August 2016, eight thefts were reported from GreenHill ward.

The Greenhill area also reported the highest number of violent crimes against another person with 50 reported up to August 2016.

Only three thefts were reported in the Roxeth and Marlborough wards, and none were reported across 12 other wards in Harrow.

In December last year, a 34-year-old woman was banned from St George's shopping centre in Harrow for six weeks, after pickpocketing a mobile phone.

A number of plain clothed officers often patrol Harrow town centre on the look out for thieves, particularly around the holiday season.

Sergeant Mark Pullen from the Harrow Town Team said: "We have had some success with the operations which was launched due to the town centre being a hot spot for pickpocket offences”.

READ MORE: Borough commander: 'Harrow is safest area in London'

Here are top 10 tips from the Met Police :

1. Keep handbags and bags fastened closed and wallets in inside pockets

2. Zip up hand and shoulder bags. Keep your valuables in sight at all times never leave your items unattended.

3. Carry bags in front of you.

4. Keep straps short and bags tucked under your arm.

5. Be discreet with your belongings; displaying expensive jewellery or electronic devices, like mobile phones or cameras, could attract unwanted attention.

6. Keep cash, mobile phones, MP3 players and other high value property such as laptops out of sight.

7. If making your journey by minicab, always book your journey through a licensed operator. Download Cabwise - a free cab booking app.

8. Use well-lit and safe routes to and from locations and not short cuts – always plan your journey home before you set out. Look confident and walk purposefully to your destination.

9. Be aware of what is happening around you, especially when you are in new locations and situations.

10. Be extra vigilant in crowded public places, venues and next to cash machines.