Police checked hundreds of vehicles in an estate to see whether their doors were locked after a spate of thefts.

There have been almost 60 thefts from cars and vans across Watford in May, as well as 17 occasions when criminals got into vehicles or vans but nothing was stolen.

Most of these crimes were not committed through picked locks or forced entry, but instead taking advantage of unlocked doors.

A Neighbourhood Watch message from a North Watford Safer Neighbourhoods Team officer warned members of a spate of thefts in the area.

Police tried car doors around the Raphael Drive estate on May 25 after a multiple reports of thefts from cars parked in the area.

Officers tried 326 vehicles and found 13 unlocked.

The police are urging residents to be mindful and to ensure their vehicles are locked and valuables are removed or out of sight.

A police spokesperson said: “Since the start of May, we’ve had 60 reports of thefts from motor vehicles across Watford, plus 17 vehicle interferences where access was gained but nothing taken.

“Items taken include a camera, sat nav, pressure washer, money (loose change and larger amounts in purses/wallets), bank cards and cigarettes.

“In the majority of these cases, vehicles had been left insecure.”