POLICE are calling on drivers to look after their property after a rise in thefts from cars.

In recent weeks, officers have noticed a huge rise in thefts in the Darlington area.

In one night there were ten incidents, compared with a normal average of two or three. Police revealed that in 70 per cent of the incidents cars where property was left on show were targeted.

A borough-wide initiative called Operation Hawkeye is concentrating on stopping the rise in thefts from vehicles.

Officers who notice that a driver has left property on show will note the car's registration number and write to the owner suggesting he or she take more care when leaving their vehicle.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Reddick, of Darlington police, said: "We are doing what we can to stop these thefts occurring, but we want members of the public to take some responsibility for their belongings and keep them out of sight in their cars."

As well as clamping down on thefts from cars, Darlington officers are repeating their appeal for residents to keep their doors and windows locked after a spate of sneak-in thefts.