HIGHER parking charges could lead to an increase in the number of cars being broken into or stolen on the outskirts of Bolton town centre.

Police chiefs believe car owners -- instead of paying the increased rates -- will opt to park in side streets or car parks on the outskirts of the town centre not protected by CCTV cameras or car park attendants.

Police figures over the last few weeks have revealed an increase in the number of cars broken into on the fringe of the town centre.

And they fear a recommended seven per cent increase in parking charges on council owned car parks may lead to even more cars being attacked.

Supt Alan Greene, of Bolton Police, said levels of car theft in the town centre had fallen over recent months but the most recent crime figures had shown a rise in the number of cars attacked, or stolen, from car parks and roads on the outskirts.

Supt Greene believed that car parks in Spa Road, Deane Road, St Helens Road and Trinity Way are attracting thieves because they are not protected by CCTV.

Many of the drivers who use the outer car parks are shoppers who visit the town centre then walk back carrying goods and property.

Police have launched a leaflet campaign to warn drivers of the dangers as Bolton Council chiefs consider increasing car parking tariffs.

Supt Greene said: "There is definitely a trend. People are avoiding secure car parks to save money.

"People have got to weigh up the pros and cons when parking and we will be handing out leaflets to warn people of the dangers of parking in insecure areas."

The Bolton Evening News has joined forces with retailers, shoppers and office workers urging council chiefs to think again about imposing the increase. The newspaper is encouraging readers to sign a printed coupon supporting the campaign. The signed coupons will then be presented to council chiefs.

They say the extra cash raised from any increase -- estimated to be £45,000 -- will be used to plug a budget black hole in the council's budget.