WIRRAL homeowners can discover how to combat Christmas crime thanks to an innovative “virtual” interactive house.

Merseyside Police have been visiting local shopping centres with their giant eight-foot model home and car to demonstrate how to improve security.

Wirral Area Commander Chief Supt John Martin said: "A large percentage of crime is committed by the opportunist thief, when a window is left open or a door unlocked.

"It’s extremely important that we do all we can to reduce the opportunity for crime to occur and we hope that the advice provided via the interactive house will assist members of the public to secure their homes further.

"Improving security around your home doesn’t necessarily have to cost a fortune, it can be the simple things that only take a few minutes of your time that prevents crime from taking place.

Householders can check their security knowledge by answering questions at the interactive house.

There’s also a chance to win an i-pad mini2.

The house and car have been visiting the Cherry Tree Centre in Liscard, the Pyramids in Birkenhead and ASDA in Bromborough.

Chief Supt Martin added: “Most people do know to close their windows and turn their alarms on, but there are a lot of other crime prevention measures you can take that many people will not be aware of.

“I’d encourage as many residents as possible to come and see the interactive house, particularly in the run up to Christmas.”

You can visit the house and enter the competition here