MOTORISTS are being warned to keep their car keys secure while they are asleep.

Police have re-newed their appeal to motorists after an £18,000 silver Ford Focus ST-2 was taken from a Worcester driveway.

The keys were stolen through the letter-box from an address in Grasshopper Avenue.

A police spokesman said: "In this instance, the keys were 6ft or so from the letter-box, but visible to anyone looking through the glass.

"We do not know what was used to reach in and obtain the keys, but a clothes-line pole was found at a neighbouring address after attempts had been made to gain entry there on the same night.

"Opportunist vehicle thieves are incredibly resourceful in identifying and obtaining ignition keys. All drivers should, therefore, always ensure that their keys are at least out-of-sight and, preferably, in a drawer or cupboard."

The car contained £1,600 worth of Calloway, Odyssey and Titleist golf-clubs and golf shoes, a £980 lap-top computer, a £250 cream and red Gucci hand-bag, a £200 i-pod and a woman's denim coat, valued at £20.

They were taken between 11.30pm on Thursday, June 28 and 5.30am on Friday, June 29.

Nothing was taken in the incident at the second address in Grasshopper Close, but damage was caused to the building near where a pole was found.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area between the given times, or who is offered items matching the given descriptions, is asked to call police on 08457 444 888, quoting 102S/290607. Information can also be given - anonymously - by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.