OWNERS of high-powered cars in Droitwich are being urged to be extra vigilant after a spate of thefts in the town in the last two months.

They are being warned to keep their keys out of sight because thieves are breaking into houses specifically to steal them.

Seven vehicles have been taken from the driveways of homes in this way since March.

The latest thefts took place yesterday morning.

Two cars were taken from outside a house in Sandles Road, on The Ridings estate.

The cars, a black Honda Civic Type-R, registration BL53 YSB, and a grey BMW 318 Coupe, registration DU51 BYD, were stolen at approximately 01.30am.

"Quite often, drivers leave their keys on view near a door or window, making it easier for them to be taken," said a Droitwich police spokesman.

"In some instances keys have been taken from hall tables by reaching them through a letterbox with something resembling a fishing-rod.

"In others, windows have been forced or smashed and the keys - and vehicles - have been taken before the occupants can fully comprehend what is happening.

"Droitwich seems to be a particularly popular place for this sort of theft, due to its close proximity with the M5, which provides an easy getaway.

"We would urge vehicle owners to conceal their keys from the view of anyone looking through a window or letterbox.

"This can act as a deterrent and will discourage them as they will have to be in the building for a longer period, therefore increasing the chances of being discovered."

The other cars stolen are:

March 4 - a Range Rover from Falcon Close.

March 23 - a Mercedes C220 from Sandles Road.

March 24 - a BMW 330 from Tagwell Road.

March 26 - a BMW 318 from Coppice Way.

April 30 - a Skoda Octavia from Bowden Green.

Anyone who has seen any of these cars is asked to call police on 08457 444 888.