THE public are being urged not to leave valuable items in their vehicles after a sudden spate of thefts ion just one night.

Three parked vans were broken into in the Whitby area overnight on Sunday to Monday, August 17 and 18.

The thieves made off with a motocross bike and associated items as well as a range of power tools.

PC Nicola Knowles appealed for tradesmen and dealers offered any used property to carry out appropriate checks and contact police if suspicious.

She added: “I also urge everyone to check the security of their vehicles and make sure any valuable items are removed from them overnight. Anything from mobile phones and satnavs to the valuable tools of your trade should be removed.”

Anyone with information should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for PC Nicola Knowles. Or email Nicola.knowles@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk . To remain anonymous, pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.