THIEVES have been targeting vans in Herefordshire, with police reminding motorists to leave their vehicles parked securely.

Tools and equipment were stolen when a van in Fownhope was broken into overnight on February 25.

West Mercia police said the van was parked on a driveway at a property in the village, and anyone with information should ring them on 101 quoting incident 0075s of February 25.

On the same night in Ledbury, an attempt was made to break into a van parked on the roadway outside a property in Bridge Street.

Police added it wasn't a successful attempt and nothing was stolen, but there was also report of a van being broken into in New Street.

The incident number for anyone with information is 0088s of February 25.

In Hereford, a parked van was broken into overnight on February 21 and items were stolen, but police were unable to provide a description of the items.

The van was parked in Staddlestone Circle, and the crime reference number is 0120s 240220.

Police say that van owners can take a number of steps to ensure their vehicle is safe from thieves.

A spokesperson said: "Most vehicle crime is opportunistic and happens as a result of a vehicle being left vulnerable or unsecured."

Examples given include doors or windows left unlocked, tools and equipment left in work vans and parked in a poorly lit areas.

"The advice on our website will provide you with some tips on how you can outsmart car thieves," they added.

"Following these simple steps will help us to reduce vehicle crime even further and save you the hassle and expense of having to repair any damage caused during a vehicle break-in."

For more information visit the West Mercia Police website.

Other vehicle crime reported in Herefordshire over the past week includes the rear window of a car being smashed in Glenthorne Lane, Hereford.

"Persons unknown have broken the rear window of a car parked on a driveway at the property, no report of entry gained or any items stolen," a police spokesperson said.

They added anyone with information should contact them on 101, quoting reference number 0376S 240220.