CAR owners have been urged to be on their guard following an increase in thefts from vehicles in the Valley.

Acting sergeant Andy Gilbert said: "We are having loads of thefts from cars at the moment especially around Bacup and Waterfoot and are appealing for anyone who has information about them to contact us.

"We think it could be the same offenders and someone must know who they are."

In the latest incidents a Kenwood CD player was stolen after thieves broke in to a K-reg Rover 216 in Wharf lane, Waterfoot on Friday.

Thieves stole £280 in cash and ten CDS worth £100 from an ed Scania at Matthew's Self Drive, in Rochdale Road, in Bacup, over the weekend.

Anyone with information should contact Rawtenstall CID on 01706 237442 or anonymously on Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.