POLICE in north Worcester-shire are warning motorists to be vigilant following a spate of thefts from vehicles in the past fortnight.

Tools, mobile phones, laptop computers, audio equipment, navigation systems and other personal belongings have all been taken from cars and vans in Kidderminster and the surrounding area.

Sergeant John Elliott said: "We want motorists to be aware that these offences have taken place and to take extra care themselves, particularly when leaving their car or van for the night. Thieves will target laptops, audio systems, tool kits and other expensive items left on display inside a car or van. Our advice is to get into the habit of taking these items out of your vehicle, particularly overnight. It is also advisable to park off the road and to use a garage if you have one available to you.

"As any victim of car crime will tell you, having your expensive stereo system stolen is quite bad enough, but losing a laptop computer or your tool kit can be a great deal more inconvenient, and may have a huge impact on your work as well."

He added that motorists parking up for the nightshould check the vehicle was securely locked. If the vehicle does not have an alarm, valuables should be removed. If this isn't possible, they should be locked in the boot.