Walkers in Sidmouth’s rural beauty spots urged not to leave valuables on display in parked cars after series of thefts

Walkers in rural beauty spots around Sidmouth are being urged not to leave valuables on display in their parked cars following a series of thefts.

Police say that over the past few weeks thieves have been targeting parked vehicles in remote spots including Peak Hill car park.

PC Chris Pusey said: “We have had incidents of secure and insecure cars being broken into and items stolen.”

He said car windows had been smashed and doors forced to reach the items. Police will be placing leaflets on cars over the next few weeks.

Items being targeted include iPods, phones, Sat Navs and other valuables and he advised that any possessions in the car should be kept out of site.

PC Pusey added: “Removing holders for mobile phones and Sat Navs is also a good idea – if they are spotted it could give someone an excuse to break in.”

Sidmouth’s Sergeant Andy Turner added: “We’ve noticed a sudden increase in crimes of this type in East Devon.”

“The message is don’t leave valuables in your car. All of the victims we had last year, and recently, have left items like purses and handbags in their vehicles. These are the only vehicles being targeted.”