The increasing sophistication of on-board vehicle security systems has made it more difficult to steal a car, leading thieves to turn to burglary to get their hands on car keys.

To reduce the chances of having your car stolen in this way, police are asking motorists to consider the following simple steps before going to bed at night:

• If possible, lock your car in the garage and make sure that even there it is properly secured.
• Ensure that all downstairs windows and doors to the property are locked.
• Double lock all UPVC doors. Lock them with the key, not just by pulling up the handle.
• Put your car keys away. Keep them safe and well out of sight.
• Consider installing a letter box restrictor. Thieves have been known to hook keys from hallway tables by
  pushing a pole through the letterbox.

Inspector Andy Parkman said: “Burglars do break into properties with the sole intention of finding car keys and then stealing the vehicle.

“We would urge all motorists to keep the security of their vehicle uppermost in their mind when at home, not only in keeping their keys safe and out of sight but also by never leaving their car unlocked if it is parked on the street or driveway overnight.”