A PIONEERING initiative to cut car crime in Warrington has had a dramatic effect since its launch last April.

Operation Willow '98 has reduced these offences by 21.5 per cent over a six month period compared to the same period last year.

With car crime accounting for between a quarter and a third of all reported crimes in Warrington, the latest decrease has been hailed as a success by members of the special unit set up to deal with motor crimes.

Sergeant Howard Davidson, who has co-ordinated Operation Willow '98, said: "In 1997 the operation proved very successful so it was decided to keep it running in to this year.

"So far we have had a significant drop in the number of vehicle related crimes, ranging from ringed cars to stolen property.

"We now have a dedicated stolen vehicles squad based in Warrington that is building up intelligence on criminals, helping us to catch thieves and gather enough evidence to send them to prison."

A combination of high profile policing in notorious areas as well as covert operation has helped stop thieves.

Added Sgt Davidson: "Between 11 and 15 cars are stolen every week from Warrington divisional area, of which 35 to 40 per cent are never recovered, but we aim to reduce that figure."

Although the number of criminals based in the town has been slashed, Warrington's location at the hub of the motorway network brings its own difficulties.

PC John Thompson, of the stolen vehicle unit, said: "We do have a problem with people from outside the area travelling to the town and taking vehicles.

"We are linking up with neighbouring forces in Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside to increase the intelligence and work in partnership."

Owners can also help lower the risks of becoming a victim of vehicle crime.

Detective Constable Graham Hale, of the Crime Prevention Unit, said: "The majority of car crime is preventable if owners employed a number of simply measures.

"The best form of security is to install a Thatcham category two immobiliser. Most security 'stop locks', however, have proved ineffective in tests," he said.

Doors and windows must be locked when you leave the car and valuables or coats should be removed or placed out of sight.

"Another tip if leaving your car parked overnight is to park close to a main road. More people are likely to drive past which makes it a harder for thieves to go unnoticed."

Cheshire Police will soon be publishing a 'Secure You Car' booklet. If you need more information contact 01244 350 000.A

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