In the past week there have been a number of thefts from cars in the Hoole area with sat nav systems the favourite prey.

PCSO Keith Bartlett is hoping a fresh warning will prompt people to ensure their property is secure.

He said: "Leaving a sat nav, or any other valuable item, on display is an open invitation to thieves to break into your car.

"Even if you hide things in the glove compartment or boot, you could still be advertising your belongings thanks to telltale signs.

"Often the holders for sat nav can leave suction marks on windows, while MP3 players and iPods also need cables or other devices to hook up to car stereos and these can be a real sign to thieves that the car contains something worth stealing.

"The only way to ensure your property stays safe when you leave your car is to take it with you."

For more advice on how to keep your car and property safe from thieves ring Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 and ask to speak to a crime reduction adviser.