Car crime has been increasing in some Bradford suburbs prompting police to issue a warning to motorists to take extra precautions with vehicle security.

In the early part of this year police in the Idle and Thackley, Eccleshill and Shipley and Saltaire districts have reported rises in criminals targeting cars.

While police have been conducting their own work to combat the problem, they are calling on motorists to take common-sense steps too, by making sure they are properly locked before leaving them.

"Experience suggests opportunist thieves will simply move along if they find a secured car, so taking a few seconds to make sure your vehicle is safe really will reduce your chances of being a victim of crime," said Detective Inspector Alan Flynn.

"It only takes a few seconds to make sure your car is secure. If it has remote central locking, try the door handle before leaving it.

"Don't leave any property in your vehicle on display. If you must keep valuables in your car, keep them hidden out of view.

"You could also leave your glovebox open to show there is nothing inside. And, if you use a satellite navigation system, please make sure you wipe the sucker marks from the window."

Anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour around vehicles is asked to call the 101 non-emergency number.