POLICE are warning people to keep their car keys out of view after a spate of vehicle thefts in Ryedale.

PC Terry Triffitt said there had been a number of cars stolen since the start of August by thieves who had earlier broken into houses to get the keys.

In the past week, keys have also been taken from unlocked houses.

Yesterday, PC Triffitt urged residents to keep keys out of sight and to keep doors and ground floor windows locked.

He said: "If you leave your doors unlocked and keys in full view, then you are easy prey for these thieves.

"It is potentially frightening that these thefts are taking place in people's homes. These criminals are taking high risks but getting away with it, and I am concerned that they may prove violent if caught in the act.

"I know we have had some warm weather and it is more tempting to think you can leave your doors open, but with thieves on the prowl you simply cannot afford to take the risk.

"My advice is to put your keys in a drawer somewhere, out of sight, during the day and take them upstairs with you when you go to bed. Don't leave them lying around or hanging on key hooks."