NORTH Ayrshire motorists need to be on their guard after a recent rise in thefts from vehicles in the Girdle Toll, Lawthorn and Kilwinning areas.

Police Scotland have revealed that in the past two weeks over 20 vehicles have been broken into by thieves and had property nicked from within.

Area Commander for North Ayrshire, Chief Inspector Martyn Hopkins, said: “I cannot stress how important it is for motorists to lock their vehicles and to keep valuables out of sight. Many of the recent thefts have been from unlocked cars – opportunistic thieves are taking advantage of owners who forget to lock their vehicle or don’t take an extra few seconds to remove their sat nav from display for example”.

Police enquiries are continuing into these incidents and anyone with information on those responsible is asked to contact Police Scotland by calling 101 or to call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.

VEHICLE SECURITY ADVICE Lock your vehicle and keep the keys secure within your home away from the main entrances and not on open display.

Remove valuable items from your car when unattended.

Try to park your car in a well lit area.

If you have security devices for your home and car use them at all times.

Always use and lock gates and garages.

Position movement sensor lighting to activate should anyone approach your vehicle or home.

If you notice anything suspicious in your neighbourhood call Police Scotland immediately on 101 (always dial 999 in an emergency).