POLICE are urging residents in Thornbury to make sure their vehicles are secure after a series of thefts in the past week.

Two Range Rover Sports were stolen, with the first, a gold 2015 model, taken from Elberton overnight between Thursday, September 15 and Friday, September 16, and the second, a black 2010 model, taken from a home in Hill in the early hours of Saturday, September 17.

Police have said it is not yet clear how the vehicles were stolen, as the victims still had their keys, and officers are treating the incidents as potentially linked.

The black Range Rover was found to be in Ilford, Essex at midday on Tuesday, using false licence plates, and is currently being examined by the Metropolitan Police Service for forensic evidence.

The vehicle’s owners have since been notified.

This follows the theft of a moped from Oldbury Naite overnight between August 24 and August 25. 

The bike was found abandoned between Rockhampton and Hill on Sunday this past weekend.

Thornbury beat manager PC Sean White urged motorists to be cautious.

“We have not had any further incidents reported since the two vehicles were stolen, but I would ask people to remain alert and to contact us immediately if they see anyone acting suspiciously,” he said.

“We’re continuing to investigate the thefts and I’d ask anyone with any information which could help to get in touch with us.”

Police have issued an alert through the local Farm Watch system and enquiries continue, while officers have offered advice to residents on how to deter thieves.

Among the suggestions being given, people are being reminded to keep keys out of sight and equip their vehicles with alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices.

Police also advise keeping your vehicle in secure garages overnight, and where possible installing motion-sensing security lights, sturdy fences and lockable gates around properties.

Officers have asked for anyone with information that could assist their inquiries to contact them by calling 101, quoting reference 5216206214, or using an online contact form at avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact

Alternatively, reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.