It may the season to be jolly but sadly the Christmas period is also a time for theft. With expensive presents lying beneath trees across the UK and more people leaving their homes to stay with friends and family, the festive period is an opportunistic one for would-be thieves. According to esure, theft claims hike up by a fifth during the winter months and the company recommends that homeowners ensure they have adequate cover. Mike Pickard, head of risk and underwriting at esure home insurance, said: "Christmas gifts that you have bought for friends and family as well as presents that you've received can add up to a hefty sum. "It is important to make sure you have ample contents cover, especially around this time of year when thefts tend to be more targeted and the value of burglaries are higher than any other season."The company advises that homeowners hide their presents rather than leaving them somewhere that can be seen from the outside. It also recommends that property owners do not leave their homes looking empty and to leave the radio or lights on when visiting others over the Christmas break.