MOTORISTS were today urged to be extra vigilant as police battled against a rise in car crime.

Detectives in Pendle want people to help them reduce the number of thefts from vehicles in the area.

They said many took place because vehicles were left unlocked or with valuable items clearly on view.

Handbags, mobile phones, CD players and work tools were among items stolen during the past few weeks.

Police are employing a number of tactics to help catch those responsible but, says Nelson Insp Paul Robinson, car owners must play their part.

He said: "Many categories of crime, including burglary, are actually on the decrease but unfortunately we have seen an increase in car crime over the past few weeks.

"Targeted patrols are taking place in affected areas by both police officers and traffic wardens in a bid to deter offenders and we are actively on the look-out for insecure cars, the owners of which we trace and provide with crime prevention literature.

"However, this is a problem which the police can't tackle in isolation. We need the public's help."

Insp Robinson and his team are urging motorists to:

Ensure that the vehicle is locked, even if left for only a few minutes.

Use the car alarm and immobiliser if they have one.

Park securely when shopping or at work. Consider parking near CCTV cameras and in wel- lit areas.

Keep the car in a secure garage.

Make sure there are no valuable items on display in the vehicle.

Report any suspicious activity to police.

Give details they may have of any crimes to Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Insp Robinson added: "By following these simple steps, local people can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of car crime -- and all the misery it brings.

"And by keeping us and Crimestoppers informed about local crimes, they can also raise the possibility of those responsible for these crimes being caught."