POLICE in the St John’s area of Bromsgrove have issued a warning to drivers, not to leave their vehicles insecure, after a number of incidents where vehicles have been tampered with in the area.

In some cases a messy search of the vehicle has been made, but in other case items have been taken from vehicles.

Drivers are being warned never to leave anything on view, and take mobile phones, audio, and satnav equipment with them when they leave the vehicle. As an extra precaution they should remove the sat nav cradle, wipe away any marks left by suction cups which might have held it in place, and make sure nothing is left stored in the boot.

Drivers should never leave a car with the engine running, or leave the keys in the ignition, and cars should always be left locked with the windows and sunroof fully closed.

In addition police have recommended fitting self-locking screws to prevent number plates being stolen, and fitting anti-theft devices to steering wheels, fuel caps and wheels, and only leaving cars parked in safe, well-lit areas or secure car parks.

To report any incidents of car crime call the non-emergency number 101, or in an emergency call 999.