POLICE have issued a warning to car owners following a spate of vehicle break-ins in Chorley.

Thieves are targeting expensive models parked outside hotels and restaurants.

Police believe the raiders may be hunting for laptop computers, often left in cars by businessmen visiting the town.

Detective Constable Gareth Stockley of Chorley Police said it was likely the incidents were linked.

"All the vehicles seem to be expensive and parked at similar establishments so it is probable that thieves are looking for something in particular," he said.

"Lots of businessmen leave laptops in their cars and we believe this is what the thieves may be looking for.

"They are using screwdrivers to open car doors within seconds.

"From here they find it very easy to take items from the back seats or to simply open the boot and steal whatever the owner has left there.

"I can't emphasise enough how important it is not to leave valuables in cars. They're just too tempting for thieves."