POLICE today warned car owners in Oxford after a thief broke into eight vehicles causing a large amount of damage.

The incidents happened in Gaisford Road, Barns Road, Boswell Road, Beauchamp Lane, The Grates, Cardinal Close, Eastern Avenue and Herschel Crescent.

Officers believe the incidents on Tuesday night are linked.

They would like to talk to anyone who may have seen a man in the area that night fitting the following description: white, 6ft, of large build, with a bald head, but possibly wearing a cap or hooded top.

Police said he may have been riding a bicycle and using a torch to look inside vehicles.

PC Claire Maynard from the Oxford Auto Crime Team said: "In all only two CD players, a holdall containing some sports clothing and just 90p in change were stolen. However, thousands of pounds damage has been done to these vehicles.

"We advise people to not leave anything of any value in their vehicles and to leave their glove boxes open to show there's nothing worth stealing hidden in the car."

Anyone with information on these thefts is urged to contact PC Maynard via the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505.

If you do not want to speak to police and do not want to leave your name, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.