Theft from vehicles is still a big problem despite a small fall in the number of reports, say police.

There have been 1,365 reports of people’s cars and vans being broken into since April 1 last year, 1.8 per cent fewer than the same period the previous year.

Police said they are continuing borough-wide patrols to reduce theft from and theft of vehicles, but urged vehicle owners to be vigilant with their property to deter thieves.

DC Inspector Phil Howarth said: “We are seeing a reduction of 29 per cent of ‘theft of’ vehicles but we are not enjoying the same level of reduction in ‘theft from’ vehicles. While property is still being left in plain sight the vehicle break-ins will continue.

“In a perfect world our property would be safe on show in a locked car, but the sad reality is that there are some people who will cause damage to your vehicle without hesitation if they think there is the chance of making fast cash.”