POLICE are urging vehicle owners to be vigilant after a spike of keyless thefts.

A number of vehicles have been stolen in Whitefield and officers are urging motorists to take extra care this winter.

Advice has also been issued to avoid being caught out by criminals.

A police spokesman said: "Due to an increasing number of reports of keyless vehicle thefts happening in the Whitefield area, we are urging residents to take extra precautions to make sure their vehicles are secure this winter.

"Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home, and away from your front door.

"It’s not uncommon for car keys to be stolen from inside your home by thieves fishing for them with a stick and hook through the letterbox.

"When not in use, keep your electronic car key in a security pouch to prevent it being scanned by thieves to open and steal your car nearby."