Beware: thieves have got your number (plate)

DRIVERS in the Bristol area have been hit by a spate of number plate thefts.

Community Safety Inspector Gerry Treacy, of Avon and Somerset police, said: "Since January 1 this year, 48 plates have been reported stolen across the Avon and Somerset policing area – eight in South Gloucestershire.

"Thieves steal the number plates of law-abiding motorists and use them to try to avoid detection when committing other crimes.

"If you come across abandoned number plates, whether they are broken or even if they look like they have fallen off, give us a call on 101. We'll ask for the registration details and when and where you found it."

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Neighbourhood policing teams have been helping local motorists prevent this sort of theft by holding special events at supermarkets and DIY stores, swapping standard number plate fittings with security screws.

Crime prevention sessions were held in the car parks of Badminton Road Methodist Church, Downend, and St Barnabus' Church, Warmley, last week.

PCSO Katrina Sheldrake said: "Fitting tamper-proof screws is a quick and effective way of securing your number plate and we were doing that for free at these evening events.

"Despite the cold weather we had almost 100 motorists visit us in all. It's important to let us know if your number plate is stolen, if you find one abandoned, or if you spot anyone acting suspiciously near cars."