Motorists in Cowbridge and the wider Vale area are being urged to ensure their vehicles are kept secure, with all valuables removed, following a number of thefts in recent weeks.

The area has seen a spike in auto-crime, with five cars broken in to within the last week alone.

A further five incidents were also reported during November.

The vast majority of vehicles were left insecure, and while many of the thefts happened overnight, officers are reminding vehicle owners to be vigilant at all times.

Chief Inspector Tony Williams said: "While people should be able to leave property in their cars and vans, or leave their car unlocked for a brief moment, it is a sad fact that it is simply not safe to do so.

"The only way to deter opportunist thieves is to ensure vehicles are always kept securely locked – even if only leaving the vehicle momentarily – and that anything of perceived value is removed.

"It can be tempting to leave items in the car, particularly in the run-up to Christmas when there's lots of shopping to be done, but it's simply not worth the risk."

Police patrols have been stepped up in the town and enquiries are ongoing. Residents are urged to report any suspicious behaviour.

Anyone with information about the recent thefts should also contact 101. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.