POLICE in Hertsmere are stepping up their fight against car crime after 16 offences in Bushey and Aldenham over a 13-day period.

From Friday, July 8, until Thursday, July 21, the area was averaging more than one instance of theft or attempted theft from or of a vehicle every 24 hours.

Officers are asking members of the public to lend a helping hand and inform police of anybody committing offences as part of Operation Rat Trap - an initiative dedicated to tackling vehicle crime.

Anyone with any information can telephone the Operation Rat Trap team on 01727 796066, or telephone Hertfordshire Constabulary's non-emergency number on 0845 3300 222.

Otherwise telephone Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Drivers can also have a free Rat Trap sticker to put in their rear windscreen and local businesses can sponsor signs for their car-parks.

Anyone interested can e-mail nicola.hall@herts.pnn.police.uk.