Police are warning residents and tourists not to leave items on display in unattended vehicles following a series of thefts at Cornish beauty spots.

Several unattended cars were broken into at locations including Wheal Coates car park, St Agnes; Cadson Bury Fort, Callington; Godolphin House, Helston; and Tehidy Country Park, Camborne, between Thursday 7 April and Saturday 9 April.

Sgt Mark Stephenson, based in Truro, said: “We want to remind residents to be vigilant, report any suspicious activity and ensure vehicles are left secure, particularly at this time of year with the warmer weather on the horizon.

“All of the vehicles had bags clearly visible inside and entry was gained to most of the vehicles by using a bar to smash a window.

“As well as the inconvenience and expense, these incidents cause considerable distress to victims.

“To reduce the chances of this happening, when leaving vehicles unattended remember to lock them, close windows and remove any items on display, particularly sat navs.”

Top tips to keep your vehicle safe Secure doors, windows, boot and sunroof when you leave your vehicle.

Don’t leave items on display when you leave the car, especially your satellite navigation system. You should also try and remove the mount when your vehicle is unattended. Clean any suction marks if visible from the window.

When you leave your vehicle, make sure you remove the keys from the ignition .

Always park in a well-lit location that is visible to passers by.

Have your car windows marked/etched with the vehicle identification number (VIN).

Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the vehicle.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to email Sgt Mark Stephenson via 101@dc.police.uk or by calling 101.

Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or reporting online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

For more information about crime prevention visit www.devon-cornwall.police.uk