THIEVES have been targetting Thornbury and Chipping Sodbury, stealing nearly 15 catalytic converters in just two weeks.

So far 14 ‘cats’ have been cut from vans and cars because of the high resell price of the metals inside of them. Registration plates have also been snatched in Hanham, Kingswood and Longwell Green, allowing the thieves to avoid detection when committing other crimes.

Neighbourhood Inspector Andy Workman said: "Previously thieves have been cutting or unbolting the catalytic converters from vehicles with high ground clearance, like vans, pick-ups and SUVs – and it only takes them about five minutes.

"More recently we've seen Peugeot and Citroen cars and people carriers targeted. In some cases the thieves have even jacked up the vehicle."

Police are offering car owners the opportunity to have their catalytic converters security-marked, with help from Briant Tyres & Exhausts depots on the A46 at Old Sodbury and Westerleigh.

A limited supply of kits will be available on a first come first served basis to drivers visiting these garages between 9.30am and 3.30pm on Wednesday, October 9.

Neighbourhood officers will be on hand on the day to exchange standard number plate fittings for tamper-proof security screws.

Insp Workman added: "Even having your 'cat' security-marked or clamped won't prevent a determined thief making off with it – but it can help us trace the item and prove it's stolen, helping us bring the thief or handler to justice.

"It's really important to call 999 immediately if you see someone acting suspiciously near a car or van. It's also important to tell us about any theft of number plates or catalytic converters – or if you find them abandoned. You can report online through our website www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101."

Alternatively contact charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org