A SPATE of thefts from vehicles in Thornbury and Alveston in recent months has prompted a warning to residents to be on the alert.

Police have received 16 reports of thefts or attempted thefts from cars and vans in the area between February and March, with stolen items including tools, loose change, a holdall of clothes, a dash cam and number plates.

Windows have been smashed on at least two occasions, but nothing was stolen, with a further attempt saw would-be thieves escaping empty handed after a car alarm sounded.

Most of the incidents have taken place in Thornbury, with three further cases in Alveston and one in Milbury Heath – some happening overnight, with one in broad daylight while the vehicle was unattended for less than half an hour.

Thornbury beat manager PC Natalie Jones said: “It’s important to empty your vehicle of valuables, lock it and set the alarm whenever you leave it.

“I know it’s not always possible for van drivers to take everything out of their vehicle, but ideally tools and equipment should be kept in a secure box or cage anchored inside the van.”

PC jones suggested that making tools and equipment identifiable is important as it can help deter thieves if the real ownership can be proven by permanent markings with a business name or postcode.

It was also advised that vans could be parked with the rear access doors against a wall or another vehicle to make them less of an obvious target.

Residents who hear an alarm sounding are asked to check outside and call 999 straight away if they see someone tampering with a vehicle or a crime underway.

Any other suspicious incidents should be reported by calling 101.