POLICE in Pendle are calling on the public to play their part in helping to cut car crime.

The appeal follows a recent increase in the number of thefts from vehicles in various parts of the town, many of which had either been left unlocked or with valuables clearly on view.

A laptop computer, mobile phone and handbag were among property stolen in recent days, despite repeated appeals aimed at encouraging people to take more care of their vehicles and valuables.

Sgt Karen Edwards said: "Despite numerous local and national campaigns it seems that people are still not taking on board simple crime prevention measures. We have stepped up patrols and are doing everything we can to try and trace the offenders but we can't tackle this problem in isolation, we need the public's help, too."

Karen and the car crime prevention team are urging motorists to take simple measures such as ensuring that the vehicle is locked even it if is only left for a few minutes.

Sgt Edwards said: "It takes only seconds to steal a car."

Other advice is to use the car alarm and mobiliser if there is one; keep the car in a secure garage, make sure there are no valuable items left on display and to report any suspicious activity to police.

She asked the public to give any details of any crimes to Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.

She said: "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 risk of those responsible for these crimes being caught."