Officers are asking residents to be vigilant following a rise in reports of golf clubs being stolen from vehicles in Cheltenham.

This warning comes as a warm spell of weather continues and more people are likely to be playing golf.

At least six incidents have been reported over recent months with thieves targeting cars parked in the College, Elmfield, Oakley, the Park, Pittville and Rowanfield areas.

Offenders have gained entry to the vehicles before searching inside and stealing golf clubs and golfing equipment.

In one instance over £2,000 worth of golf clubs and a caddy bag were stolen from a car in the Pittville area.

Vehicle crime is often opportunistic and we're asking residents to check that vehicle doors are locked and personal belongings or valuables are removed where possible.

For advice on ways to help keep your vehicle safe please visit: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe

Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or is targeted by a vehicle break-in is asked to report this via our online form: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/

You should call 999 if you see an incident in progress or offenders are still present.