POLICE across East Hampshire are reminding residents to keep their vehicles secure following a spate of thefts this month. Despite numerous warnings, opportunist thieves are still pouncing on goods left on show in vehicles by careless motorists – and statistics are showing crime is on increase. In Petersfield, three vehicles were targeted between Thursday, November 1 and Wednesday, November 7 and a stereo, diesel and rubber were stolen. In nearby Liss, three vehicles have been targeted between Friday, November 16 and Tuesday, November 20 where windows have been smashed and untidy searches carried out. A swimming bag was taken from one vehicle. Meanwhile, in Alton, eight vehicles have been targeted between Saturday, November 3 and Tuesday, November 20. Stolen items include tools, a satellite navigation system, a bag hidden under a seat and number plates. Glass has also been removed from wing mirrors. In Liphook, seven vehicles have been targeted between Saturday, November 10 and Tuesday, November 20 when windows have been smashed. Tools, laptops, a purse from the glove box and windscreen wipers are among the items stolen. Vehicles were also targeted in Bentworth, Froxfield, Headley, Passfield, Oakhanger and Beech. Penny Tarrant, East Hampshire's crime prevention officer, is offering the following advice as part of Hampshire Constabulary's Safer Vehicles campaign: lDon't leave anything in your car – if it's not there, it can't be stolen lThieves 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 in valuable l Don't hide items under the seat or in the glove box, which is one of the first places thieves look. Leave your glove box open to show there is nothing hidden inside. If you cannot avoid leaving something in your car, put it in your 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 Penny added: "Please be vigilant when parking your vehicle; 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 (PCSOs) will be at Sainsbury's across the district over the next month giving out advice on how to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of vehicle crime. "If you have any suspicions, then contact the police." Anyone with any information should contact their local police station on 0845 0454545 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
