Motorists are warned to ensure their vehicles are locked and secured following a spate of thefts across the district.

Since January 25 there have been more than 118 offences relating to vehicle break-ins in St Albans, Harpenden and London Colney.

Sergeant Scott Curran from the Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “In a number of the offences vehicles have been left unlocked and are an open invitation to thieves, who for these types of crimes are opportunistic.

“Whilst we are carrying out high visibility and plain clothed patrols, proactively targeting suspects and have made a number of arrests, I would urge people across the district to consider some simple crime prevention advice to help stop them becoming a target for thieves.

“I would also ask people to report any suspicious activity via 101, or dial 999 if you believe a crime is in progress.”

Antonia Litten, eastern regional manager for Crimestoppers, said: “There are people out there who know who is responsible for these vehicle thefts across Hertfordshire and I would urge you to contact us at Crimestoppers. You can report information on crime anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through the Anonymous Online Form at crimestoppers-uk.org/give-info.

“Crimestoppers are not part of the police, we don’t take personal details and we can’t trace information given online or on the phone. We don’t want to know who you are, just what you know.”