WEST Yorkshire is the worst area of the country for thefts of Land Rover Defenders, new figures have revealed.

Across the country, thefts of the vehicles, or parts of them, have risen by 17 per cent since 2015. And insurance claims for the vehicle reached £2.1 million in 2016.

Of that total, West Yorkshire was the county with the highest amount of claims, at £297,717.

The vehicle is no longer being produced, and NFU Mutual, which carried out the survey, said the fact that the Defender was now a “classic” meant they were a bigger target for thieves.

Despite having the highest claims figures in the country in 2016, the cost of such thefts actually fell in West Yorkshire compared to 2015, when the figure was £331,000.

One local victim of Defender thefts has urged other owners to take as many extra precautions as possible to protect their vehicles.

Last March, thieves broke into Avalanche Autoworks in Ilkley, stealing two Land Rover Defenders and wrecking a third. Owner Max Quilter said yesterday: “After my place was burgled I heard two other customers had Defenders taken from their homes. I don’t think anyone is really safe. I’d just recommend people take any out any extra security on their vehicles they can.

“Just because they are more likely to be a target of thieves doesn’t mean you stop being interested in this type of vehicle, even if that threat does take a bit of enjoyment out of it.”

Clive Harris, Agricultural Vehicle Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “The Defender is no longer in production which has prompted a greater demand, making them a bigger target for thieves.

“I urge Land Rover Defender owners to be vigilant and be on their guard.

“Owners should ensure they have adequate security measures in place and consider fitting an after-market approved immobiliser and a tracking device if possible.

“When not in use, Defenders should be parked in a garage or a secure area which is well lit if possible. Never leave keys in the ignition and keep keys out of sight at home and when out in public areas.”

After West Yorkshire, the worst hit areas of the country were Lincolnshire, where claims amounted to £221,248, and Kent (£144,501).

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