MOTORISTS have been warned about a rise in thefts of satellite navigation systems.

In an attempt to halt the increase, Harrogate and District Safer Communities Partnership is urging drivers to remove the equipment when they leave their vehicle unattended.

Robin Davies, crime reduction officer for the partnership, said: "Neighbouring police forces in Cleveland, Durham, West and South Yorkshire advise that they are seeing increases in thefts from cars where satellite navigation systems seem to have been the target.

"We want to warn residents in our area so that we can nip this one in the bud.

"As with all portable plug-in electronic devices for cars, we recommend removal from the vehicle when you leave it.

"And don't just put it in the glove compartment. Take it with you, or if you can't then lock it in the boot.

"If you are travelling locally, think about whether you need to use it for those journeys to cut down the chances of a criminal being tempted to remove it."

The partnership is also urging owners to engrave or mark their postcode on to the device and record the serial number.