THIEVES stole three cars with a street value of more than £70,000 after breaking into a house in Hyndburn, police said.

A Mercedes C220 worth £35,000, a Vauxhall Insignia worth £25,000 and a Fiesta Z-Tec worth £11,000 were taken from South View in Great Harwood at 2am on Sunday.

Police are now warning car owners to be extra vigilant after a spate of thefts across the borough.

Sgt Ian Corbett from Great Harwood police said that three sets of keys were swiped from the kitchen after thieves forced their way through the back door of the property.

Sgt Corbett said: "It seems that homes are becoming an easy target and we can't stress enough that doors and windows need to be locked at all times.

"Over the last few months it seems that cars are a target and if these criminals get away with taking vehicles they are more than likely going to be committing more crimes once they have wheels."

According to the Great Harwood Neighbourhood Policing Team the number of high value car thefts is increasing with BMWs and Mercedes Benz particularly desirable makes.

Sgt Corbett said: "We are warning people to be extra vigilant when they lock up their homes at night.

"Take your bags and car keys up to bed with you and make sure your car keys aren't easily- accessible.

"We have cases of thieves smashing through windows when they see keys on display, it's easy for them to take them directly off the drive.

"We have seen an increase in higher value cars being taken so if you own one of these cars in particular, be extra careful."

Cllr Gareth Molineux, who represents Great Harwood, urged anyone with information about the thefts to come forward.,

He said: "It's very sad that these people are continuing to target this area.

"If anything residents should be aware of what is happening and be alert.

"Sadly because of the police cuts back in 2010 where we saw 800 officers across Lancashire sacked, it's clear to see that we need more valuable resources, this may mean more police presence not just during the day but 24/7."

Anybody with information should call 101.