CAR owners in Ipswich were today urged not to leave possessions on display following a spate of thefts from vehicles.Five vehicles parked in Fonnereau Road were broken into and had items stolen in just five days.

By GEORGINA JAMES

georgina.james@eveningstar.co.uk

CAR owners in Ipswich were today urged not to leave possessions on display following a spate of thefts from vehicles.

Five vehicles parked in Fonnereau Road were broken into and had items stolen in just five days.

As a result of the smash and grabs, police have stepped up patrols in that area.

The most recent incident happened last Thursday when a handbag was taken from a Daihatsu Fourtrak.

The first theft took place on Sunday, July 21, when a Peugeot 406 was broken into and a mobile phone taken.

Approximately £100 of damage was caused to the vehicle.

Two further offences took place on Tuesday, July 23, where personal belongings were taken from an Audi A3 and a Renault Clio.

The following day a handbag was stolen from a Ford Focus.

During one evening, officers counted 18 vehicles which had bags or personal possessions left on display.

Inspector Peter Haystead said: "In each of the most recent incident vehicles have been broken into where items have been left on display.

"We would encourage everyone to remove all personal possessions from their car, including removable stereos, once they have parked up.

"If items are bulky, store them in the boot – out of sight, but make sure this is carried out before your journey.

"Remember – if it's out of sight it's out of a thief's mind. These measures will hopefully deter opportunist thieves."

Anyone who witnesses an incident should call Ipswich police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.