THE summer heatwave has sparked a car crime spree in the North, with hundreds of families having their summer breaks ruined by car criminals.

A survey has shown that smash-and-grab thieves have spent the summer months targeting the region's tourist attractions and leisure resorts.

Two in five car crimes in the North have affected families enjoying holidays or day trips, with an average of £350 worth of goods being stolen each time.

The Autoglass study estimated that a third of families in the area will not use their cars over the Bank Holiday because of fear of crime.

Nigel Doggett, managing director of Autoglass, said: "This has been a great summer for car crooks. When the weather is hot, motorists are more likely to issue open invitations to thieves by leaving windows down and sunroofs open.

"If they want to avoid the cost and distress of a car crime attack, motorists in the North must be more alert over the Bank Holiday weekend."

Six in ten drivers said they were less vigilant about car crime during the hot weather and while on days out or holidays.

The Association of Chief Police Officers is warning drivers to park in well-lit, open locations, lock valuables away, remove or cover radios, close windows and lock the doors, boot and sunroof, even if the car is only being left for a few seconds.

People are also being urged to set the alarm or immobiliser and use a steering lock.