A spate of thefts from cars and vans has been reported in rural areas near Luton and Dunstable.

Now the series of vehicle break-ins has sparked a police warning to traders and drivers.

There has been a rise in the number of vans broken into in the Barton and Silsoe areas in recent weeks. Power tools, including drills and circular saws, have been taken.

In Eaton Bray, more cars are being broken into and valuables have been stolen.

Det Con Richard Foulkes said: "We don't want to alarm motorists, simply to make them aware of this emerging pattern, so they can take the appropriate precautions and together, we can nip it in the bud."

Police advise traders to remove, where possible, all tools from vehicles at night and put the items in a secure place; ensure tools are security marked and adequately insured; fit vans with alarms, immobilisers and security chests; black out any windows and fit security grilles; back vans up to a wall to make it difficult for rear doors to be attacked; and attach stickers warning that no valuables are left in vehicles overnight.

Motorists are advised to park their cars inside a garage; fit security lights over driveways; remove valuables, including sat-navs, laptops and coats; use immobilisers or alarms; and fit index plates with tamper-proof screws.

Anyone with information that could help to catch the culprits should contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

Bedfordshire Police

Crimestoppers