POLICE have warned people to secure their unattended vehicles after opportunist thieves targeted dozens in neighbouring communities.

Durham Police said 30 thefts from vehicles have been reported in the last four weeks alone in the Chester-le-Street area, with vehicles hit in Pelton, Urpeth Grange and Ouston.

Although it may be an obvious message, police are advising motorists to make sure their doors are locked and that valuables are not left on display.

Detective Constable Marco Fantin, of Chester-le-Street Police, said: “People who leave their vehicles unlocked are presenting an easy target for opportunistic thieves.

“These vehicles are not being broken into with windows being smashed, instead offenders are trying the doors and if they find them unlocked are simply taking whatever valuables are inside.

“We can obviously investigate and look to bring those responsible to justice, but we would always advocate prevention.Lock it, don’t lose it.”