Car owners in Calne are being warned to be on their guard after a spate of vehicle thefts and damage over the past few days.

A community transport vehicle was also targeted causing £4,000 worth of damage.

Police say they have received several reports of vehicles being broken into, damage caused and items taken in Rutherford Road, Davy Drive, Beversbrook Road.

"We are seeing a spike in reports of thefts from vehicles, with a variety of items taken," said PCSO Mark Cook.

"We are carrying out extensive enquiries, and believe many of these crimes are likely to have been carried out by the same persons.

"We know the inconvenience, disruption and financial hardship these types of thefts cause, with victims not only losing items themselves, but also the damage caused to their vehicles - which is particularly difficult during these uncertain economic times.

"The damage caused to a vehicle used to transport many local residents is partially upsetting."

"Pro-active patrols are being stepped up in these and other locations in Calne."

Here is the crime prevention advice from police:

1. Keep your vehicle locked, windows shut and your keys secure

2. Park in a well-lit area and in clear view of your property and any CCTV cameras.

3. Do not leave any valuables such as wallets, phones, Sat Navs etc. on display.

4. Consider fitting a tool safe and secure it with good quality locks if you own a van.

5. Try to park your van close to a building or hedge to restrict access.

6. If possible, remove all tools from the van when it is left overnight.

7. Take photographs of items of value and make a note of serial numbers.

8. Consider fitting an alarm that is Secured by Design accredited.

9. Mark the items of property/tools that are stored in the vehicle using an artificial DNA property marker such as Smartwater or SelectaDNA.

10. Call 999 immediately if you see a crime in progress or any suspicious activity around trade vans. Note the registration numbers of vehicles and descriptions of those involved.

If you have any information relating these reports, please contact us on the number 101, quoting crime reference number 54210024810.