WIDNES residents are being urged to be vigilant following a spike in the number of thefts from cars.

On Monday, January 7 police received reports of 10 cars having been targeted by thieves in the Widnes town centre and Upton Rocks areas.

Unlocked cars and vehicles with valuable items on show have been targeted and the items stolen include handbags, bank cards, mobile phones and clothing.

Inspector Ruth Atherton, from Widnes Local Policing Unit, said: “Vehicles have been targeted in town centre car parks and outside residential addresses in Upton Rocks.

“Enquiries in relation to these incidents are ongoing and patrols are being stepped up in those areas in a bid to actively target those responsible.

“The majority of the incidents involved vehicles that were left insecure or had valuable items on show.

“As a result we are urging vehicle owners to be vigilant and to take steps to reduce their chances of becoming victims of this type of crime.

“Whether you are going shopping or to the gym or leaving your car outside your home overnight, please ensure that your vehicle is secure and does not have any items of value on show.

“I also urge residents to report any suspicious activity to the police to aid our ongoing battle against vehicle crime and help us to bring offenders to justice.”

Cheshire Constabulary’s anti-theft advice for vehicle owners is:

• Try to park your vehicle in well-lit areas.

• Ensure that your vehicle is locked and secure with the windows up whenever you are not inside it, even if you are only leaving it unattended for a brief moment.

• Remember to activate your alarm and/or steering lock whenever you get out of your vehicle.

• Never leave valuable items inside your vehicle, such as mobile phones, laptops and cash.

• Do not leave anything that may attract an opportunist thief visible in your vehicle.

• Do not forget to remove your satnav and the fascia of your car stereo when you get out of the vehicle.

• Wipe away the mark from the windscreen that is left by the suction pad, as this is a tells thieves you have a satnav.

Anyone with any information about vehicle crime in Widnes is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 or give the details online.

Information can also be reported anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.