BIRMINGHAM will be ding-a-linging with the sounds of jingle bells this Christmas in a bid to stop muggers preying on shoppers.

Street wardens are busy handing out miniature bells to attach to people's purses, wallets and handbags in a city council scheme.

It is hoped the sounds of the bells jingling will raise the alarm when thieves strike by trying to snatch unsuspecting shoppers' bags or purses.

The bells are available at the Birmingham Markets Customer Care Centre, in Edgbaston Street, on stalls in the Frankfurt Christmas Market, Upper New Street and the craft fair in Chamberlain Square.