THIEVES have been stealing valuable items from vehicles in South Lakes and Furness, sparking a police warning.

Officers are reminding motorists not to leave any valuable in their vehicles, particularly as darker nights start to draw in.

A number of vehicles have been broken into in Ulverston and Lakes area in the last two weeks with items stolen including wallets, an I-pad and Sat Navs.

Commercial vans have also been targeted and a number of high value power tools stolen.

A police spokesperson said: “We would like to encourage vehicle owners to remove anything of value when they secure their vehicle overnight, including detachable parts of audio systems, sat navs, etc. If you remove the temptation a thief will look elsewhere. Business owners are also asked to remove high value power tools from their vans, and not to leave them in their plastic cases.”

“As the nights draw in it is important people consider parking their vehicles in well-lit areas if at all possible. We encourage everyone to be vigilant within the neighbourhood, reporting any suspicious activity.”

Members of the public are asked not to hesitate and report any suspicious activity to Cumbria Police on 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress. Alternatively information about crime can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

For any further information and advice please contact the duty Sergeant at Ulverston and Lakes.