Garages in Watford, Hertsmere and Three Rivers will be offering free catalytic converter security markings following a rise in thefts of the devices.

Hertfordshire Constabulary says that certain garages across the county will be offering the service as part of the force’s campaign to help drivers protect their vehicles.

The campaign, named Operation Feline, aims to help drivers protect their catalytic convertors and provide practical crime prevention advice to help deter thieves.

It comes after thefts of catalytic converters rose this year, with the devices containing high value metals.

Inspector Nicki Dean, from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Crime Reduction Unit, said: “Over the past year we have seen a big rise in thieves targeting catalytic convertors. They are particularly targeting specific hybrid models such as the pre-2008 Honda Jazz, Toyota Prius (2004-2016) and Toyota Arius (2012-2018).

“We have teamed up with garages around the county to offer free catalytic converter security marking. We would also urge the public to follow our advice, remain vigilant and report incidents of suspected catalytic converter theft, particularly where people are trying to get under cars in public car parks or on public roads. If you see this happening, please call 999 immediately.”

The following garages in Watford, Hertsmere and Three Rivers will be offering the free security markings.

Three Rivers

• Japex Automotive, Happy Valley Industrial Estate, Kings Langley. Contact: 01923 260707

• Langley Autocraft, Happy Valley Industrial Estate, Kings Langley. Contact: 0192 3269456

• New Road Service Station,50 New Road, Croxley Green, Herts, WD3 3EP. Contact: 01923775144

Watford

• Crown Honda, 46-52 High Road, Bushey, WD23 1GQ: Contact: 020 8950 3311

• Steven Eagell Toyota Watford, 9 Ascot Road, Watford, WD18 8AD. Contact: 01923 693333

Hertsmere

• Kwik Fit, Elstree Way, Borehamwood, Herts WD6 1LB. Contact: 0208 207 1820

• JTT Autotech, High Street,Potters Bar. Contact: 01707 658899/647755

• C & C Motors, Unit 4 Cranbourne Industrial Estate, Potters Bar, EN6 3JN. Contact: 01707 644656

For more information and to find out which other garages in Hertfordshire are taking part click here