Police alert after spate of car break-ins near Selby (From York Press)

Police alert after spate of car break-ins near Selby

8:14am Monday 15th October 2012 in News By Dan Bean

THERE has been a wave of car break-ins near Selby, prompting a renewed warning from police to motorists.

Six incidents have been reported to North Yorkshire Police in recent weeks, after parked cars were broken into at isolated rural locations. A red Renault Megane was seen at the locations bedfore each incident.

The latest theft happened at Brayton Barff car park last Thursday, between 9.45am and 11am, when thieves smashed a window and stole a handbag from the boot of an Alfa Romeo.

The owner of the Alfa Romeo reported a red Renault Megane had been in the car park when they arrived, but on their return to their car an hour later, the Megane had gone.

PC Dave White, of Selby Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “I am asking members of the public to keep an eye out for a red Renault Megane acting suspiciously in the Selby area. A car matching this description which is in the area for innocent purposes can quickly be eliminated from our inquiries.”

Other items stolen previously from vehicles at Brayton Barfff and Brayton Nature Reserve included personal accessories such as purses, wallets and satellite navigation systems.

PC White said the investigation into the vehicle suggested the offenders may have travelled into the Selby district from West Yorkshire, and urged residents to remove all valuables from their vehicles.

He said: “The police investigation to trace and locate the vehicle is currently ongoing. Enquiries have shown that the offenders may have links in the Pontefract area.

“I would like to remind drivers to ensure that they don’t leave anything on display in their vehicles when parked. Items such as satellite navigation systems and other valuable possessions should be taken out of the car.”