Lock out the thief, police urge drivers

Officers issued the warning after a number of in-car CD players and valuables were stolen during the past week.

Police said motorists should keep cars locked and valuables secure and revealed that many of the thefts could have been prevented if people were more vigilant.

Inspector John Clucas said: "We are working hard to track down the offenders but in the meantime I would urge motorists to take some basic crime prevention measures.

"Firstly, they should ensure that their cars are always locked and secure and alarmed wherever possible. This makes the vehicle less attractive to thieves.

"Secondly, if the car stereo or CD is removable or has a removable front cover, it should be removed. Take it out of the car -- thieves are not stupid and will often search the vehicle for items they know will have been concealed.

"Finally, I would ask car owners to record the exact model and serial number of their car stereo because when we recover stolen units, it is often hard to tie them back to a crime. If we have a serial number this is good evidence so we can charge offenders."

Anyone who has any information about the recent thefts is urged to contact the police on 01282 425001 or call crimestoppers free and in confidence on 0800 555 111.

A simple nut could be the solution to a recent spate of wheel thefts in Burnley according to the police.

Officers are currently investigating an increase in the number of spare wheel thefts from Vauxhall Fronteras and believe further thefts could be prevented if owners fit a locking wheel nut.

Inspector John Clucas said: "The spare wheel on this type of vehicle is bolted to the rear door and thieves are simply unbolting them and stealing the tyres."

"What I would do is urge Frontera owners to get a locking wheel nut or other type of security device from a reputable dealer.

"It's a simple but effective idea which could prevent a theft and all the cost and inconvenience that goes with it."