MOTORISTS promote car crime in their area by leaving items on display.

This is the message from Dorset Police who say a quarter of vehicles were targeted by thieves because they were left insecure or had items on display.

Now PC Jonathan Williams, crime reduction officer at Bournemouth, is calling on drivers to take on board his simple crime prevention advice or risk becoming a victim statistic.

"People know what to do but don't do it. You know if you don't lock your car or windows you are opening yourselves up to be a victim. You might as well leave the doors wide open, the keys in the ignition and a tank full of petrol.

"It is no secret but people just don't seem to want to get the message, they are either too busy or they don't think it will happen to them.

"Even an old coat on the back seat is target for someone to want to smash the window and grab it."

Earlier this month Bournemouth Police launched a new initiative Operation Wave, which aims to reduce and detect vehicle crime throughout the division.

As part of the operation a hotline number - 01202 222335 - has been set up to encourage people to call in with details of criminals they believe are stealing cars or property from cars.

Although vehicle crime in Bournemouth dropped by 9.4 per cent between April 2003 and March 2004, compared with the same period the previous year, Bournemouth police say it remains high on their priority list.

As part of the operation PC Williams is using a computer programme which alerts him to a spate of vehicle crime. He can then send warning letters and information leaflets to alert nearby residents.

PC Williams said: "Vehicle crime is a cost factor to us because we have got to attend, it is a cost factor to insurance companies and also to the victim who has to recover the car and get it fixed.

"At the end of the day crime prevention is not rocket science. It is simple basic advice."

Operation Wave hotline: 01202 222335

Top Tips

Don't leave anything on display when you park your car.

Fit an immobiliser and car alarm.

Park in a garage if you have one or in secure car parks.

Use a steering lock.

Take the fascia off your car stereo.

Keep your keys safe.

Don't buy bargains that could have been stolen - this will encourage people to continue stealing.

First published: August 23