Police are concerned about the rise in vehicle crime involving items being stolen from vehicles in the borough since the beginning of the year.

Detective Sergeant Lee Holehouse said: “The offences are not linked specifically to any one area of the town but tend to be spread over the whole area. There are, however, a greater volume in Frankwell, Copthorne, Harlescott and Meole Brace.

“Saturday night into Sunday morning is when the majority of crimes are committed, some 40 per cent, with cash, credit cards, purses and wallets, work tools, laptops and mobile phones among the items stolen.”

He said in many cases, vehicles had been left insecure with doors unlocked. In others, windows had been smashed or doors forced.

“Our Local Policing Teams and Response officers are aware of this trend and are paying particular attention to the ‘hot-spot’ areas. But we need the public to be aware of what’s happening and to tighten up on basic security.

“There are two main things they can do – make sure doors are locked at all times even when the vehicle is left for just and minute or two, and secondly, to ensure nothing of value is left on view and better still, is removed from the vehicle altogether.

“Do not leave items in parked vehicles overnight and that includes valuable work tools. If you have to leave anything of value inside, lock it out of sight in the boot.”

DS Holehouse also appealed for information about anyone seen acting suspiciously near vehicles. “If you see something which raises your suspicions, do call the police immediately on the 101 number.”

Information can also be given to the anonymous Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111, for which a reward may be paid.