District councils have drawn on inspiration from popular Christmas film Home Alone to spread a message to Bucks residents on how to protect their homes from burglars over winter.

Chiltern and South Bucks district councils have warned burglaries usually increase over winter months, as criminals take advantage of longer hours of darkness.

Teams have created a video based on the plot of the Christmas classic – which saw young Kevin McCallister left at home after his family set off for holiday.

Cabinet member for community safety at South Bucks District Council, councillor Patrick Hogan, said:

“Cllr Patrick Hogan, SBDC portfolio holder for Community Safety, said: “We know that crime prevention messages can be a little dry, but it’s really important that everyone knows how to protect their home so that they don’t fall foul of crime this Christmas.

“That’s why the team decided to create this light-hearted video, starring Emily, who lives locally and attends a youth theatre group.”

Cabinet member for community safety at Chiltern District Council, Liz Walsh, said: “In the film Home Alone, when Kevin McCallister is left behind by his family as they go on their Christmas holiday, he has to defend his home from burglars.

“In our video, Emily finds herself in a similar situation, and discovers that her family have left the home unsecure in their rush to leave. Fortunately, she is a very savvy nine year old and is able to take action to secure the house – without the need for any booby traps.

“We’re very grateful to Emily for her fantastic performance, and to her mum, sister and dog for assisting with the video shoot and letting us use their home."

For crime prevention advice visit: http://www.chiltern.gov.uk/homesecurity