Police investigating recent thefts from vehicles in Bury St Edmunds are advising motorists to take crime prevention steps to deter thieves.

The latest incident took place between Saturday 10 December and Monday 12 December at a car park in Symonds Road on the Moreton Hall estate.

The driver’s side window of a white Vauxhall Movano was smashed during the hours of darkness and a cash tin taken.

Other vehicles have been targeted around the Nowton estate and other parts of the town in recent months.

Inspector Matt Gilbert said: “Having your car broken into can be very distressing but there are a few steps you can take which will deter thieves and keep your valuables safe. Many of these crimes are opportunistic and we want to make it harder for criminals.”

• Always lock your vehicle, even if you are away from it for only a short time, and keep your windows fully closed
• Secure anything that is on the outside of your car or van
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. Take mobile phones, wallets, purses or cash with you
• Ensure that any electronic items, and their mountings, are hidden from view
• Vans are often targeted for any tools left inside. If you have to leave them overnight, do ensure they are clearly marked or, better still, kept in a lockable box or cabinet
• Try to avoid dimly lit areas. Park in busier and brighter areas if possible
• Catalytic converters are also a target for thieves so do park carefully, register and mark the converter and ask your car dealer for advice on locks that are approved by the vehicle manufacturer

If you have any information on the latest incident in Moreton Hall please contact Suffolk Police, quoting crime reference 78371/22.