The number of vehicles stolen in Queensbury, Wibsey and Royds has fallen by ten per cent in a year, police say.

Officers from the neighbourhood policing team say fewer cars and vans have been taken between April and October, compared to the same period last year.

The number of vehicles broken into has also fallen by 15.4 per cent.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “The bad news is that some people are still leaving their vehicles unlocked or leaving property in their vehicle on display.

“Others are leaving their car keys near to their front or rear door to their house and then leaving the door unlocked, believing they are safe just because they are at home. Always lock your door, even when you are inside. Sneak-in burglars will enter to steal your keys and then your car.”

Officers on patrol in the areas have been delivering crime prevention letters to owners of vehicles with property on display.