Tradesmen are being urged to protect their tools after ten thefts from vehicles between April 12-16.

In eight of the incidents reported to police, the tools were taken from vehicles which had been parked overnight in driveways and streets.

The other two incidents were reported by drivers who had parked in a superstore car park during the day.

Most of the vehicles had had their locks forced.

PC Pat Simcox, of Sutton’s Crime Prevention Team, said drivers should try and park in well lit areas and near their home if at all possible.

She said: “All tools should be property marked, and the most expensive tools should be removed from the vehicle overnight whilst others should be locked securely within a solid tool vault bolted to the sides or bottom of the vehicle.

“Vehicle alarms were also a good investment.”

Police are running a number of operations in the borough to catch thieves who steal from vehicles.

Police tactics include using both uniform and plain clothes officers - and officers from specialist teams, including dog units.

The crime prevention team can be contacted on 020 8649 0569.