Police have seen an increase in car thefts where walkers are likely to leave their vehicles unattended for a period of time.

This comes as Thames Valley Police says it is continuing to receive reports of thefts from motor vehicles, most recently in the areas of Charlbury, Chadlington and Leafield.

The force said on some occasions items have been left on view, and on other occasions number plates have been taken.

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: "Offenders will smash the windows of the vehicle and take anything that is on offer.

"This is not only upsetting for the victims, but also time consuming, due to cards having to be cancelled and re-ordered, windows to be fixed, insurance contacted and potentially locks of homes changed. 

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"If you are unfortunate enough to fall victim to a theft from your vehicle, then please contact police as soon as possible, cancel cards which have been taken, if your mobile phone is taken, do you have access to other means to track the whereabouts of the phone.

“If you do not want to talk to the police, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.” 

Thames Valley Police provided a link to a website that offers further advice on how to keep your vehicle safe, which can be found here: https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/vehicle-safe-and-sound/

Charlotte joined the Oxford Mail in April 2024. 

She studied Multimedia Journalism at Bournemouth University. 

Charlotte has a particular focus on the Bicester patch and writes for the Bicester Advertiser as well as the Oxford Mail.

She can be found on X by searching @charcolesjourno.