GOLFERS have been reminded to keep a close eye on their clubs following a spate of thefts from courses in Worcestershire.

In the latest incident, at Gaudet Luce Golf Club, Hadzor, Evesham, a golfer had his clubs stolen from his car while he was at the bar. The theft from the Ford Ka happened between 7.30pm and 8pm on Monday.

It follows a spate of thefts in which seven sets of golf clubs were stolen within 30 minutes of each other on Tuesday, April 24.

Four vehicles were targeted at Ombersley Golf Club, Worcester and at Vale Golf Club, Bishampton, Pershore. Two sets were taken from one vehicle.

A police spokesman said the thefts happened while the golfers were enjoying a drink in the clubhouse - known as the 19th hole - after their matches.

"The 19th hole at all three clubs has proved to be extremely expensive for these eight victims," he said. "They mistakenly felt that their property was safely locked away in their vehicles while they were in their respective club-houses. Unfortunately, the clubs were on view and were an easy target for a thief - or thieves - clearly intent on quickly acquiring a number of sets.

While there is nothing to directly link the thefts, police are working on the theory that they were carried out by the same person or people.

"The £1,000 clubs taken from the Gaudet Luce club car park are highly distinctive as they were made for a player with larger fingers," said the spokesman.

The clubs, in a Power caddy bag, have orange handles and white spot design.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious, or has been offered golf clubs for sale from an unusual source, should call police on 08457 444 888. They should quote 662S/240407 for the Ombersley thefts, 679S/240407 for the Bishampton incident, or 749S/300407 for the Gaudet Luce theft.

Information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.