THIEVES are ignoring new cars and stealing older models, according to police statistics.

A police survey has discovered that 75 per cent of the cars stolen in Middlesbrough last year were at least ten years old, as thieves ignored models with modern security systems.

The statistics show there was a 25 per cent drop in vehicle thefts from 2,063 in 2002 to 1,527 in 2003.

Most of the cars stolen were later recovered, suggesting they were taken by joyriders rather than to be sold.

Following the publication of the statistics, Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Glynn Bass of Cleveland Police called for the owners of older vehicles to fit anti-theft devices to their cars.

He said: "Since 1995, improvements in car manufacture security means that new cars are fitted with more sophisticated anti-theft devices and thieves will target the older car regardless of its make or model.

"Car owners with older vehicles are therefore more vulnerable and must take steps to prevent their vehicle being stolen."

Sgt Bass said: "It is important that car owners understand that they are two types of car criminal: the thief who steals to make money out of the car by changing its identity or breaking it up for parts and the so-called 'joy riders' who bring misery to most owners.

"Owners of newer cars should also take sensible precautions to prevent their car being stolen by the thief. Care should always be taken with keys and even in the home they should be left in a safe place out of sight.

"If a key is either lost or stolen, or the car is bought without the full set, contact the local dealer to have the engine management system and key re-coded."