A SPATE of distraction thefts has been carried out in south Bristol.

The victims, all motorists, say they were distracted so valuables could be stolen from their cars.

In each case, drivers were sat in stationary vehicles when they were approached by a man who claimed he had spotted a flat tyre or a loose wheel on the vehicle.

When the victims got out to check, a second man would steal items from the passenger side of the vehicle.

In each case, one or both were on a bike or moped.

There have been 12 similar offences since the start of June and they have taken place in Wells Road, Wharncliffe Gardens in Whitchurch and East Street in Bedminster.

Detective Sergeant Mark Newbury said: "If someone approaches you about a problem with your vehicle, always be conscious of who is around you. If you get out, lock the car so that no one can get into your vehicle while you examining the back of it."