A rise in vehicle crime in Stevenage has led to increased police patrols in the town.

Thefts from vehicles, vehicle interference, and actual theft of cars have all been reported, with five separate thefts from cars in the Pin Green area taking place last week.

The offences are predominantly taking place overnight, so extra police patrols will take place during these times.

Sergeant Stephen Carter said: "We would like to remind people to always secure their vehicles when they leave them and invest in extra security measures such as steering locks, alarms etc where necessary. Try and park in well-lit areas and keep fobs to keyless vehicles in a signal-blocking pouch or mental tin and well away from the vehicle itself.

"If your vehicle has a tracker, make sure it is activated. You could also consider concealing a small ‘tracking tag’ inside your vehicle to help trace it should it go missing.

"Never leave any valuables or possessions on display in your car, as this is just a green light to opportunist thieves, and always report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 999."