CAR thieves have been warned that extra police patrols will cover town centre car parks in a new drive to combat vehicle crime.

Extra officers will monitor key locations around Bolton.

Inspector Karan Lee, of Bolton Police, said: "We are not prepared to let car thieves prey on innocent motorists in Bolton. We will take tough action."

Police say a national rise in car crime is being mirrored in Bolton and have declared October as a dedicated car crime awareness month.

Insp Lee also urged motorists to make use of the most effective ways to protect their property. Posters and leaflets offering crime prevention advice will be distributed across Bolton town centre. Car park tickets will also display information on the back.

Insp Lee added: "Everyone can cut car crime by reducing the opportunities open to thieves. If we all remove property, lock doors and windows, remove radios and set the alarm or immobiliser it will make a difference."

The drive in Bolton is part of Operation Hawk, a force-wide pledge to wipe out street crime. It comes as the Bolton Evening News continues its Streetwise, Streetsafe campaign which aims to help the police cut crime on the streets of Bolton.

Police are also working closely with Bolton Council.

Insp Lee added: "We are already achieving significant results toward creating a safer Bolton for all." Anyone with information about car crime should call officers in Bolton on 0161 872 5050.