Motorists are being reminded to make sure they lock their cars after a spate of thefts in Hatfield.

Since the beginning of September there have been 23 thefts from vehicles reported in the Birchwood and Salisbury Village area of the town.

In the majority of cases the vehicles were left unlocked and items such as sat navs, stereos, cash and mobile phones were stolen.

Vehicles parked in Walker Grove, Flamingo Close, Cunningham Avenue, Fillingham Way and Tiger Moth Way have been targeted.

Sgt Chris Thomas said: “In the majority of these incidents the vehicles had been left unlocked and there were no signs of forced entry so I’d ask people to remove any items of value, lock their doors and leave them secure.”

Police have issued the following advice:

> Make sure you lock the doors and shut the windows and sunroof whenever you leave your vehicle unattended.

> Remove your sat nav and its holder, and wipe away any suction marks as these could suggest to a potential thief that a sat nav is stored in your vehicle.

>Never leave any valuables in your vehicle – not even in the glovebox or boot - and keep all other possessions out of sight.

>Use an approved steering lock or gear clamp, and remember to set your immobiliser and alarm if you have them.

>Register your stereo, laptop, sat nav and any other property on the free online property database www.immobilise.com. It only takes a few minutes and could help police trace your property if it’s lost or stolen.

>Look out for car parks with a Park Mark Safer Parking sign which have recognised levels of security. If you have a garage at home, make sure you use it and lock it properly.