Warning after rural car thefts

A warning has been issued to walkers who park their cars in rural areas in East and South Kent.

Thieves are targeting vehicles left in areas popular with those who park to enjoy the local countryside. Car windows have been smashed and handbags and other valuable items stolen.

Nineteen thefts have been reported to Kent Police in the last month in areas including Covet Woods at Barham, Stone Street between Folkestone and Canterbury, Pennypot and Denge Woods near Canterbury, Hastingleigh, Wye, Lympne Hill and Nonington near Dover.

PC Lewis Tompsett said: "The advice is simple - do not leave anything of value in your car. It is obvious that thieves are picking on these cars parked in rural and sometimes isolated areas. They know that items are hidden under car seats or in the boot.

"Leave items of value at home or take them with you when you leave the car."

Suspicious activity near parked cars should be reported immediately to Kent Police by ringing 999. Anyone with information about the thefts should contact PC Lewis Tompsett at Kent Police on 101, giving reference ZY/28520/12.