With 'the most wonderful time of the year' nearly upon us, ex-thief Michael Fraser explains why it really is the most wonderful time of the year for break-ins. 

Fraser was, in a former life, partial to many's a five finger discount, but he has turned things around and is now a highly successful security consultant and motivational speaker. 

You may recognise him from BBC's Beat the Burglar and Channel 4's Straight Talking TV shows. Here is is in action:

Speaking on Dermot and Dave, the expert gave us his practical but incredibly valuable tips on how not to become a victim of crime in your home. 

When chatting about pets in the home, like guard dogs, Michael says you shouldn't advertise the fact that you have any. He explains how robbers mind's work in a different way, and for them, what they will see is "if the pet is moving around in the property - so can I". And he proved this with a magnificent story where he "ended up pinching the dogs as well". You couldn't make it up lads!

We know it's possible to get raided any time of the year, but Fraser tells us why Christmas, and the the period just after Christmas in particular, is perfect for thieves. It's all to do with excess goods and people leaving, "all those advertisements like big boxes outside saying we've had a new TV or we've had a new computer", as he put it. And now that he's said it - it makes sense.

As for social media, "I call that internet shopping" he laughed. People foolishly put way too much information up on their social sites and this makes things so simple for a burglar. He suggests not putting holiday info up until you are back from your travels. Again, it's actually common sense that we take for granted. 

So be safe and take note of what has to say. 

Check out the chat in full by pressing the play button in the image at the top of the page.