A spate of thefts has prompted a warning to motorists in Folkestone not to leave valuable items in their vehicles.

In the past week alone, seven vehicles have been targeted across the town.

Police today issued advise to motorists on ways to avoid having their belongings stolen.

Most car crime is carried out by 'opportunist thieves' and the main advice is to remove items like Sat Navs, laptops, phones and handbags.

Sgt Jeff Lawrence, from Shepway Community Safety Unit, said: "Don’t leave anything in your car, especially valuable items.

"Even leaving coats, bags and non-valuable items like loose change could attract an opportunist thief, so clear everything from your car.

"When you park, choose an area that’s in view from passers-by and well-lit and if using a car park try using ones showing the Park Mark sign, as these meet certain security criteria."

Thefts and attempted thefts have been reported in:

• Margaret Street, Folkestone, between 1.05pm and 1.15pmon Thursday, November 21 when awindow was smashed and a Samsung laptop stolen
• The Old High Street, Folkestone, between 7pm on Friday, November 22 and 12.40am early on the Saturday. Despite a window being smashed it is not yet known if anything was stolen
• Payers Park, Folkestone, between 7pm and 9pm on Thursday November 21. The vehicle was searched but nothing stolen
• Eastfields, Folkestone, between 10pm on Saturday, November 23 and 1.50am on the Sunday morning. A handbag containing bank cards and an iPhone was snatched
• Tram Road, Folkestone, between 12.45pm and 4.20pm on Saturday when a wallet was stolen
• Payers Park, Folkestone, between 4.20pm and 6.45pm on the same afternoon, the victim had their shopping stolen
• Tontine Street, Folkestone, between 6.30pm and 7.20pm on Saturday evening, window smashed and a PDA stolen

If you see anyone acting suspiciously near a vehicle or have any information about car crime call Kent Police on 101.

Alternatively if you have information but would prefer to remain anonymous call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.