Police in Bradford are carrying out further work to tackle vehicle registration plate thefts, which have been slashed by a third.

Surgeries, allowing motorists to have anti-theft screws fitted for free to their registration plates, have been set up.

The scheme follows the publishing of images in the Telegraph & Argus of plate thief suspects, as well as offenders making off from petrol stations without paying for fuel, which is linked to the crime.

An 18-year-old man was arrested and given an adult caution after CCTV images of two suspects, unscrewing registration plates from cars in a car park near to Bradford Royal Infirmary, were published.

One man has been convicted of theft after the T&A published a rogues gallery in February of culprits filling up with petrol without paying in Girlington, Thornbury, Odsal, Bingley and Keighley.

Police released the images as part of a crackdown after revealing registration plate thefts had increased by 35 per cent in the district. Now they have revealed such offences have fallen by 32 per cent between February 27 and March 26.

Motorists can attend the ‘surgeries’ at Lawcroft House Police Station in Lilycroft Road, Manningham, Bradford, between 4pm and 6pm every Sunday to have free anti-theft screws fitted.

Sergeant Claire Smith, of Manningham and Toller Neighbour-hood Policing Team, urged drivers to take up the crime prevention opportunity.

“People can pull up in the visitor car park between 4pm and 6pm each week to receive this service,” she said. “Ultimately, we hope to reduce the crime associated with these thefts, particularly at a time when fuel costs are on the national agenda.

“It can be a frustrating experience for anyone who has their plates stolen, as replacing them and dealing with the consequences can be a particularly time consuming process. By working together we can prevent the associated offences from occurring in the first place.”

Sgt Smith added: “Although we are beginning to see some encouraging reductions in number plate thefts across the district, it is still happening and we should not be complacent.

“Come along to the events each Sunday and help turn the pressure on the individuals who are prepared to use these tactics to commit crimes in your area.

“If you have any information as to the location of stolen number plates, or can assist us in our inquiries to find those committing these offences, I would ask that you get in touch immediately. You can contact us anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via our non emergency number 101.”