Vehicle thefts in Dacorum have increased by 155 per cent over the past year.

According to Hertfordshire police, Stevenage also saw a rise in the thefts of vehicles, at 150 per cent.

Three Rivers recorded the third-highest rise in vehicle thefts, at 116 per cent.

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Overall, thefts of vehicles and thefts of items from vehicles have increased by 12 per cent accross Hertfordshire.

Thefts from vehicles have increased by 56 per cent in Dacorum, 45 per cent in Welwyn Hatfield and 21 per cent in Broxbourne.

According to Hertfordshire Constabulary, most items were taken when vehicles had been left unattended.

                                                                                             

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Catalytic converters are still being targeted, due to the precious metals that they contain.

Crime Prevention Officer, Darren Cowell, said: “Many reported thefts from vehicles occur when they are left unlocked, so leaving valuable items on display in a vehicle is a sure way to encourage opportunistic thieves to check the door handles.

"Removing any items such as bags, boxes, coats or loose change is an easy way to make your vehicle safer.

"I would also urge the public to follow our advice, remain vigilant and report suspicious incidents in their neighbourhood, particularly where people are trying to get under cars in public car parks or on public roads.

"If you see this happening, please call 999 immediately.”