EXECUTIVE car owners in Belbroughton and Hagley are being urged to be on their guard against car thieves following a spate of incidents.

West Mercia Constabulary, which covers Bromsgrove and the surrounding villages, has issued the warning following a string of overnight burglaries in which the only items taken from homes were car keys.

The owner's vehicle is then stolen from their driveway.

Owners of Mercedes cars, who live in and around Hagley, are being urged to be vigilant.

Insp David Jones, of Kidderminster police, said: "We are increasing police presence in the areas of Hagley and Belbroughton."

He added: "Thieves often break into houses simply to take keys or handbags which they have seen from a downstairs window or by peering through the letter-box.

"Make it a habit to always keep car keys in a safe place, hidden from view." For more advice, call Kidderminster police on (01562) 820888.