OFFICERS at Cheshire Police have issued a warning to Land Rover owners to step up their security following a spate of thefts.

Three vehicles have been stolen this weekend as thieves target properties with the sought-after car.

A red 1994 model Land Rover Defender 110 with a white roof was stolen from London Road in Stockton Heath between Friday and Saturday.

Thieves were able to steal the car without the keys.

A second Land Rover Defender - a 2014 model - was stolen from outside a property on Pepper Street in Lymm between Friday and Saturday.

A third vehicle - a 2013 model, grey Land Rover defender 90 - was stolen just hours later on Saturday between 5.30pm and 9.15pm following a burglary on Hunts Lane on Stockton Heath.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: "There is an increasing national trend in the theft of Land Rover Defenders.

"There have recently been several stolen from across the north west region and beyond. 

"They are high value desirable vehicles and potentially easy to disguise and sell on, which can then often be used in remote rural locations and therefore not necessarily subject to the same level of visibility to police forces."

Last month, a green Land Rover Defender 110 was stolen from a property on Stockport Road in Thelwall on February 25.

The car was discovered the following week with false plates on by police in Warwickshire.

Cheshire Police have since issued crime prevention advice to stop thieves in their tracks.

Anyone with information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

Tips from Cheshire Police

  • When you park your vehicle away from home, try to avoid places that are unattended, have easy access and are concealed from public view. 
  • Where possible park your vehicle overnight in your garage if you have one.
  • Consider fitting a garage alarm and ensure the garage has appropriate locks and padlocks.
  • Block your Defender in with other parked cars at your house or business.
  • Consider fitting security devices like alarms, electronic immobiliser, steering locks, gear and handbrake locks and wheel clamps. Make sure you use them when you leave your vehicle.
  • Consider fitting a tracker device to your vehicle. The device will send out a signal, which will help identify its location if stolen. It is recommended that any security systems and equipment meets the standards of Secure by Design (further details to be obtained via their website www.securebydesign.com).
  • Keep your keys safe and out of view even in your home.           
  • Consider having windows etched with the vehicle registration number.
  • If your vehicle has a towing hook, consider using a towing lock hitch cover.
  • Don’t leave valuables or tools in your vehicle as even a coat on the back seat is a target for a thief.
  • Report any suspicious vehicles or people using 101 but in an emergency always use 999.