MOTORISTS are reminded if they, “leave it on show, it will go”, following a spate of thefts from vehicles in neighbouring communities in recent weeks.

The police warning comes in the wake of an increase in vehicle interference crimes in Houghton-le-Spring, and nearby villages of Chilton Moor, Fencehouses and Bournmoor.

In many of the incidents thieves have forced locks to steal goods from parked vehicles.

Satellite navigation systems feature high on the list of items taken.

The most recent thefts were reported overnight between Friday and Saturday (January 2 and 3), with goods left on show taken from cars.

Police patrols have been stepped up in the area to deter and target thieves, but vehicle owners are urged to, “do their bit” to avoid joining the list of victims.

Both the Sunderland West neighbourhood team, covering the Houghton-le-Spring area for Northumbria Police, and their counterparts covering the Chester-le-Street area for the neighbourhood Durham force, have issued similar advice urging motorists to be vigilant.

Inspector Lisa Laverick, who leads the Sunderland West neighbourhood policing team, said: “We do have officers in the area where we know thieves are operating but we need the public’s help to reduce the number of vehicle break-ins.

“Leaving valuables on display in an empty vehicle lets thieves know there is something worthwhile for them to steal.

“Our advice is never to leave valuable items on display, on leaving a vehicle unattended, and, always make sure doors are locked and windows are closed, even if you’re only leaving the vehicle for a short time.

“If you have a sat-nav, take it with you when leaving your car and remove the fittings, plus wipe away any tell tale suction marks from the windscreen.

“Parking cars in well lit areas or secure car parks, where possible, can also help.”

Anyone with information on any of the above crimes is urged to call police on 101.