THERE has been an increase in the number of thefts from vehicles in Westbrook, Callands and Old Hall.

The surge has happened in the past fortnight and police have asked car owners to be vigilant.

Sgt Gordon Jack said: “A significant percentage of these thefts occur when car owners fail to take on board basic security precautions by locking and securing their cars properly.

“Valuable items, including laptops, sat navs and mobile phones, are then stolen when thieves have easy access to vehicles.”

Officers have advised people to ensure their vehicle is locked and secure when unattended and to activate alarms and steering locks.

They should also remove any valuable items such as mobile phones, laptops and cash, rather than store them in glove boxes or under seats.

Sat navs should also be taken out and marks left behind on windscreens wiped away.

Officers have also asked drivers to record information such as the make, model and serial numbers of any valuable property so it can be identified if stolen.

Another effective deterrent is to park in a well-lit area where there are a lot of people around.

If a garage is available for overnight parking, make sure it is used whenever possible and that it is locked and secured.

Anyone with any information about vehicle crime is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.