MOTORISTS are being warned to be on their guard against Bolton car criminals.

Figures for the last three months show Halliwell to be a motor crime hotspot with 40 car break-ins or theft from vehicles.

Harwood and Heaton residents have suffered 30 break-ins and up to 20 cars have been broken into or stolen from the Horwich area, with 12 offences involving vehicles left in Breightmet.

Now police are renewing their call to put the BRAKES on car crime, with residents following a five-point plan to tackle the problem.

Townsfolk are being warned:

Be vigilant were they park

Radios should be removed or code marked for security

Allow wheels should be secured with locking wheel nuts

Keep valuables out of sight

Etch windows and lights with registration plates

Security is prevalent

Chris Waters, crime reduction officer at Astley Bridge police station, said: "Opportunist thieves will break into cars for anything, even if there is a dog or even worse a child left in the car.

"There is always the problem of thieves breaking into cars to remove visible items such as the shopping, coats, handbags and mobile phones.

"The golden rule to follow is never leave valuables on display. If you have an estate car consider buying a cover for the luggage area."

And bargain-hunters at carboot sales are being advised to ensure they are buying car radios from reputable sources.

Mr Waters added: "Remember that it is an offence to deal or be in possession of stolen property."

Residents are also be urged to ensure car keys are kept in secure locations at home and not left on shelves.

The advice follows past cases in which people's homes have been burgled by criminals who want to steal their plush motors.

Anyone with queries about car security should contact Chris Waters on 0161 856 5746 or by letter at Astley Bridge Police Station, Crompton Way, Bolton, BL1 8UN.