Drivers are being warned to be vigilant after a spate of thefts from cars in the Sopwell and Verulam area of the city.

A Gucci bag, cash, cards and phone were stolen from a vehicle in the Waitrose car park in Mayne Avenue on Thursday, January 29 between 6.20pm and 6.30pm while a rear wiper blade was taken from a vehicle in the Wesminster Lodge car park just two days later, on Saturday, January 31 between 7.44am and 8.40am.

A coat, gloves, two pairs of Rayban sunglasses and perfume were stolen from a car parked in Gillian Avenue on Wednesday, Febuary 4 between 7am and 8am.

In a separate incident, cash, CDs and a Sat Nav were taken from a vehicle in Cottonmill Lane between 5pm on Tuesday, February 3 and 2.45pm on Wednesday, February 4.

Between 4pm on Tuesday, February 10 and 2pm on Wednesday, February 11, a purse with small change was taken from a car in Pemberton Close.

Bank cards and a driving licence were also stolen from a car in Maynard Drive between 5pm Tuesday, February 10 and 6.30am on Wednesday, February 11. Police community support officer, Lewis Griffiths, from St Alban’s Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “I would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any suspicious activity around vehicles in the St Albans area, or who has any other information about these incidents.

“I’d also urge people to make sure their vehicles are locked and secure before leaving them unattended and make sure no valuables are left inside. “If you see anyone acting suspiciously, please contact police straight away via the non-emergency number 101.”

People are encouraged to make sure their car doors, windows and sunroof are shut and to keep all valuable out of sight, not even in the glovebox or boot.