MOTORISTS who leave valuables on display in their vehicles will receive a Christmas card from the police -- warning them of the potential for thieves.

Handbags, sportsbags, jackets and even a stereo player and TV were among the items spotted by police.

PC Roy Curwen, from Pennine's thematics and crime reduction department, said: "Everybody has a part to play in reducing crime and that includes the public.,

"Leaving valuable items on full view in your car is not a good idea. If we have spotted the goods then a thief certainly will.

"The only difference being that a thief will break in and not only steal the items but also cause considerable and potentially costly damage to the car in the process."

The crackdown involves patrol officers and traffic wardens and is being carried out throughout Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.

PC Curwen said: "I would reiterate to motorists that they should never leave items on view in their car even if they are leaving the vehicle for just a short time -- after all, it only takes a minute for a thief to break in.

"I would also urge people to ensure that car doors, windows and boots are secured and that their vehicle is alarmed and immobilised."

He said the message to potential thieves was simple -- both uniformed and plain clothes police officers will be on patrol and actively targeting known criminals.