Thefts from unlocked cars have increased, sometimes due to owners leaving valuable items on display.

Police revealed that while the overall number of vehicle-related crimes had gone down, the number of people leaving their cars insecure was on the rise.

Since February, 30 per cent of all thefts from vehicles had been due to cars being unlocked, with Barnes a particular hotspot.

Items such as bags, laptops, mobile phones and sat-navs were left unattended.

Councillor Tony Arbour, Richmond Council cabinet member for community safety, said: "The police are working hard to reduce crime across the borough.

"However, there are still too many examples of people being complacent with their personal items making the work of criminals a lot easier."