CAR owners in Banbury have been warned about leaving valuables on display in their vehicles.

Police officers in the town held an information day in Lockheed Retail Park on Sunday to advise people in car security and how to prevent thefts from their vehicles.

During the day officers left more than 100 leaflets on the windscreens of cars which had valuables such as sat navs, mobile phones, handbags and presents on display while they shopped.

PC Ian Allen, from Banbury local neighbourhood team, said: “I was shocked by how many people left items on display.

“Lots of people thanked us as they had not thought about it before.”

Sgt Wendy Percival said: “I would just like to take this opportunity to remind motorists that when they park, whether it is at home or in public,to stop and take a moment before walking away.

“I would urge people to ask themselves ‘Am I sure I have locked the vehicle? Have I left anything on display?’

“It takes seconds for an opportunist criminal to open an unsecured door and to rummage through glove boxes and seat pockets.”