DETECTIVES will be going undercover in a blitz on Newton's escalating car crime.

Car crime in the town has increased by 25 per cent and with Christmas coming the problem looks set to get worse

The whole borough, including the town, already has the highest crime rate in Merseyside.

Now police are waging a war against the criminals and are urging members of the public to take extra care.

Detective Inspector Taffy Williams said people should beware, especially on market days in Newton and around the square.

"People go to the market, buy things, put them back in the car and go off again. Any item is of value to the thief and it only takes a second to smash a car window."

DI Williams said the police were trying to combat the rise in car crime with an increased presence of bobbies on the beat and undercover operations.

"But the public can help themselves by being more careful," he said. "They must take temptation away by not leaving items in the car. The thieves are walking around, looking for a chance."

Now officers are publishing a safety leaflet with a seven point safety plan to be distributed throughout the town.

Police advise car owners to lock their vehicles, even when only cleaning them, remove radios if possible and have windows etched with the car's registration.

Other safety tips include getting a car alarm and immobiliser and always keeping the steering wheel lock on, even in the driveway.

DI Williams said: "We need people to think a little more. If we can educate the public then it will make life difficult for the criminals."

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