Police are warning drivers with "must have" satellite navigation systems to be extra vigilant after a spate of car break-ins during the last seven days.

A total of 19 cars have been broken into and their navigation systems, priced at up to £2,500, ripped out at a number of sites across Blackpool and the surrounding area.

Even security-conscious motorists who attempt to hide their systems in their glove box are falling victim because thieves spot the tell-tale fixing bracket and break in to look for the device itself.

Officers are now comparing the situation to last year's "opportunist theft craze" for stealing speed camera detectors -- the 2004 'essential buy' for motorists.

A spokesman for Blackpool's crime management team, PC Geoff Duxbury said: "Just like last year's speed camera detector saga, this is a no-win situation for motorists lucky enough to have one of these devices.

"If they remove the unit from view, or even take it with them when they leave their car, they run the risk of being broken into because the bracket which goes with it is fixed to the car dash or window.

"The only way to combat this is to make sure you buy a system which comes with portable in-car fixtures or simply remove it completely until you are setting off on your next journey.

"It's unfair but crime very rarely is anything but."

With satellite navigation systems -- which give driver's precise information on how to get to a destination -- now available from around £250, an increasing number of motorists could become victims.

Detective Inspector Des Coop, advised motorists to follow basic crime prevention steps including keeping car doors and windows locked and secure, using a car alarm, parking in a secure, well-lit area and ensuring all valuables and equipment are out of sight.

It is also feared much of the stolen state-of-the-art equipment will be sold to people wanting to get their hands on this year's number one Christmas gift for car owners.

But anybody tempted to buy a navigation system in this way could be leaving themselves open to prosecution.

PC Duxbury added: "Anybody who is approached to buy one of these stolen systems this Christmas should be warned that they could be facing charges of handling stolen goods.

"And that won't spell much peace, joy or goodwill for anyone."