A poster campaign has been launched on buses to drive home a Christmas crime prevention message to motorists.
The adverts reinforce to drivers the importance of keeping valuables out of sight of thieves, who are particularly active at this time of year.
The posters can be seen on ten Stagecoach buses, which cover the Hartlepool, High Clarence, Seaton Carew, Port Clarence Tunstall and Marina routes.
Last December, more than 100 vehicles in Hartlepool were broken into.
Crime prevention officer for Hartlepool, PC Colin Hopkins, said: "Motorists coming into the town Christmas shopping can significantly reduce the chance of their car being broken into by taking simple precautions.
"Even a coat or jacket left on the back seat is an invitation for someone to break in. This campaign is our latest attempt to raise awareness as to how motorists can help stop crime.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article