MOTORISTS in Pendle are being urged to keep their valuables locked out of sight after an increase in the number of car crimes in the borough.

Inspector Paul Robinson said: "In West Pendle, through a combination of hard work, there's been a significant reduction in the number of burglaries.

"Unfortunately, we have seen an increase in vehicle crime in the area and a very significant proportion have been thefts from vehicles.

"While we continue to spread the message about car theft, we are a bit disappointed at the ease by which criminals are being able to commit these crimes.

"What I would ask people, particularly in these areas, to do is to be thoughtful of what they are leaving on show in their vehicles. We have had car radios stolen as well as the flip fronts to fixed units. There are also tools going from the rear of contractors' vans."