VISITORS to the New Forest are being targeted by thieves who break into cars parked at beauty spots.

Police said the number of such offences is increasing and urged motorists to be on their guard.

A spokesman for New Forest Heart cops said: "Over the last week we have seen an increase in the number of thefts from cars parked in the New Forest’s car parks. Please don’t leave anything on display inside your vehicle and don’t hide anything either because you never know who is watching. Please share this message and tell anyone you know who spends time in the Forest."

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Officers have been handing out crime prevention cards which can be left in vehicles. They state that there are no valuables in the vehicle.

Anyone who wants one can email richard.williams@hampshire.pnn.police.uk and one will be sent.