POLICE are reminding residents to keep their vehicles secure following a spate of thefts. Vehicles in Alton, Petersfield, Oakhanger, Liphook, Liss, Passfield, Beech, Bentworth, Froxfield, and Headley have been targetted. Eight vehicles were targeted between Saturday, November 3 and this Tuesday, in Alton. Tools, a satellite navigation system, a bag hidden under a seat and number plates were stolen. Glass has also been removed from wing mirrors. Seven vehicles were targeted between Saturday, November 10 and Tuesday in Liphook. Windows were smashed and tools, laptops, a purse from the glove box and windscreen wipers removed. In Liss, three vehicles were targeted between Friday, November 16 and Tuesday, with untidy searches made and a swimming bag removed. And in Petersfield three cars were targeted between Thursday, November 1 and Wednesday, November 7 and a stereo, diesel and rubber were stolen. East Hampshire crime prevention officer, Penny Tarrant, is offering this advice: l Don't leave anything in your car – if it's not there, it can't be stolen l Thieves aren't picky, so don't even leave low value items – often thieves will smash and grab first and look later to see if what they've stolen is valuable l Don't hide items under the seat or in the glove box, which is one of the first places thieves will look. Leave your glove box open to show there is nothing inside. If you cannot avoid leaving something in your car, put it in the boot before you begin your journey l If you are parking on the street, make sure it is in a well-lit residential area in public view l If you are parking in a car park, try not to park close to large objects, such as bottle banks, which hide your vehicle from public view l If you have a garage, use it and lock it. Ms Tarrant added: "Be vigilant when parking; look at who is around, be aware of anyone you don't recognise looking at vehicles or hanging around the area. "Our Police Community Support Officers will be at Sainsbury's across the district over the next month giving advice on how to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of vehicle crime. "If you have any suspicions contact the police." Anyone with any information should call the police on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
