CRIME reduction advisor for Halton police, Phil Buckley has this advice for preventing incidents like those in our crime file happening.

Always ensure that your vehicle is locked and secured - no matter where it is parked and for how long.

And don't attract thieves by leaving belongings on view inside.

No matter where you are in your property, don't leave external doors open or insecure. If you go upstairs or outside, remember to lock them behind you.

And finally some of advice to businesses.

If staff are not in a position to monitor entry to your premises, close things like doors and shutters behind you, masking the attraction of the property inside.