Concerns have been raised about the number of car thefts in Bolton.

And one mechanic has revealed they installed anti theft devices on vehicles which had been subject to attempted thefts 14 times last month.

Cllr Sean Hornby, who represents the Little Lever and Darcy Lever Ward, said it was the main issue he would raise with police at the council chamber next week.

He also called for tougher sentences to deter the offending.

He said: “Car thefts are rising, certainly in my patch, we have had a spate of them on a nearly nightly basis.

“I am in several Whatsapp chat group, there is CCTV footage showing them on a very regular basis.

“Some of those seen look very young .

“Harsher penalties are needed to deter it.

“When we get them before the courts stiffer penalties are needed.

“A GMP senior police officer for Bolton is coming into the council chamber next week.

“This will definitely be the top thing I will be talking about.

“It is the biggest thing on my patch.

“A lot of people are worried about it.”

He urged people not to leave keys downstairs in their homes and get pouches which protect electronic keys.

Last week Kevin Riley was one victim of this crime when he found his car had been rolled onto the street in an attempted theft on Long Lane in Breightmet.

One mechanic, who asked not to be named, said his garage had noticed a big rise in vehicles which had been subject to attempted thefts.

He said: “There is a high number of thefts in Bolton.

“It has been going up for over a year.

“Last month we installed 14 car locks on cars which people had attempted to steal.

“It is everywhere.”

He also said that Fiesta STs were a very common vehicle which thieves were targeting.

GMP Superintendent, Liz Sanderson,  said:  “We recognise the impact vehicle theft can have on victims and their families, and I would like to reassure residents that we are actively pursuing offenders.

“We have a dedicated operation focussed on targeting organised vehicle crime, as well as cross border operations with neighbouring forces. We also have an overarching Vehicle Crime strategy looking at all vehicle crime types, including theft from motor vehicles.

“While there are still a large volume of opportunist thieves, there has been significant advances in technology, with keyless entry for example being a way thieves can access vehicles. However we are working closely with partners to increase awareness in relation to the advances in technology.

“We continue to monitor the number of burglaries across Greater Manchester and gather information to adapt our strategy to reduce the number of thefts, but I would also like to encourage residents to do their part in helping keep their possessions safe.

“Keeping vehicles locked at all times, considering where vehicles are parked, keeping keys safe and using a steering wheel lock can all help reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

“It is essential everyone remains vigilant, both day and night. If we can all be more pro-active in following our advice, thefts should begin to fall.

“We want to urge people to always report anything suspicious and if they have any concerns then please get in touch by calling 101 or via LiveChat on our website. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”

There are a number of ways to minimise the threat of a vehicle being taken:

  • Keep keys out of sight, especially away from doors and windows – some offenders are using the hook and cane method to fish for keys.
  • Double check that your car is locked when leaving it, don’t just rely on the fob as signals can be blocked, preventing vehicles locking.
  • Invest in a faraday bag – they are lined with metal material and could help block the key’s signal.
  • Don’t leave any valuables on display in your car, even loose change can attract attention.
  • Invest in a tracking device – it won’t stop the vehicle being stolen, but it can significantly increase the chances of police locating and returning a vehicle to the rightful owner.
  • Fitting a steering wheel lock can reduce opportunities for theft. They are a visual deterrent and can slow an offender down.
  • Car theft typically occurs in residential areas during the night – talking to your neighbours can help the community be alert to anyone behaving suspiciously.
  • Stay vigilant. If you notice anything unusual in your community, report it to the police via the LiveChat facility of the GMP website or call 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.