POLICE in Crook are warning motorists not to give thieves easy access to their property, following an increase in vehicle crime.

Affected areas include Crook town centre and the Watergate estate, where an increase in stolen sat-nav systems, DVD and CD players has been recorded in the last few months.

Victoria Fuller, acting inspector at Crook police station, said: "The main message we want to get across is from a crime prevention point of view. We need to warn people not to leave these items on display.

"Anyone identified as responsible for breaking into cars, selling or receiving stolen goods will be arrested and prosecuted. People should be vigilant and never leave items on display."

Police officers and police community support officers (PCSOs) have been scanning the town for vulnerable vehicles.

They are issuing letters to the owners of any vehicles that are found with expensive equipment left on show, warning them of the risk of leaving items on display.

"I've had positive feedback from members of the public who have received letters from us warning of an identified risk.

"They have been appreciative of the feedback and it shows the message is getting across," said Insp Fuller.

Across County Durham, from 2006-07, Durham Police reported that out of 4,235 vehicle thefts, 529 were of sat-navs. They are urging motorists to not leave any electronic equipment on display.

A resident from Ullswater Crescent, on the Watergate Estate, in Crook, said: "I think it is a great idea, as it lets motorists know what a risk they are taking by leaving items on display.

"We should not be inviting thieves to break into our vehicles."

Police are looking for witnesses to any vehicle thefts. Please call 0845-606-0365 or Crime Stoppers on 0800-555111.