NORTHUMBRIA police has become the latest force to warn motorists to be on their guard against the theft of satellite navigation systems.

It said it had recorded a recent increase in the number of thefts of the devices and said simple steps could be taken by drivers to avoid being the victims of such crime.

The Northern Echo revealed last week how hundreds of sat-nav systems had been stolen across the region in recent months - threatening to de-rail improving car crime figures.

Crime prevention officer PC Neville Hedley said: "We are pro-actively targeting those responsible for these thefts, but people can play a large part in keeping their vehicles safe."

Drivers are advised not only to remove sat-nav systems from their vehicle, but all evidence of their existence, including the cradle they sit in, any sucker marks which may be left on the dashboard and any power leads from the lighter socket.

Another tip is to leave the glove box open so potential thieves can see there is nothing worth taking in there.

Last year, neighbouring Cleveland police issued its own warning about the devices.

It said a "posse of thieves" on bikes were specifically tracking van drivers for the accessory and then stealing them when their vehicles stopped and they got out to make a delivery.

Acting Inspector Glynn Bass, of Cleveland police, said: "Satellite navigation systems should be treated like any other piece of property and certainly not left in the car."