FOOTBALL fans are being warned about a rise in car vandalism on match days near the Kassam Stadium.

The Blackbird Leys police team say there has been a worrying spike in damage and thefts from cars.

There have been eight incidents of damage to cars around the Kassam and two thefts in the past three months, though police believe this number could be higher as many will go unreported.

Sgt Rob Axe said: “When Oxford United play at home, it seems we have a bit of a spike with damage.

“It’s not an epidemic by any stretch of the imagination, but we are worried that people aren’t using their common sense. Unfortunately if you leave something on display, it’s proving too much of a temptation for some of our residents.”

Police have posted dozens of crime prevention letters on cars in the last month, warning drivers they have left valuables on display.

Sgt Axe said: “We are urging people to be mindful that although there may be a lot of people around when you’re going into the game, the car parks are deathly quiet when the match is on.

“The main problems seem to be around the overflow car park.”

If you see anyone acting suspiciously around cars on match days, call police on 101.