MOTORISTS are being urged to hide valuables following a spate of vehicle break-ins .

Thieves got into seven cars, many of them unlocked, overnight on Tuesday and Wednesday (May 28/29) in Seaburn and Fulwell.

Items stolen included a laptop, a wallet, cash, a jacket and CDs.

Neighbourhood Inspector Tony Carty said officers would be giving the areas “extra attention”.

He added: "However, we also need residents to help us by not leaving goods on show and always making sure their vehicle is locked, even if leaving it for just a few minutes.

"All too often these types of thefts are opportunistic and leaving a door unlocked and items in full view on a car seat or even a small amount of change inside the car is enough to tempt a passing thief.

"If people simply remember to lock their vehicles, remove any items on display or store them away where they can't be seen, they are doing their bit to avoid becoming a victim of crime."