POLICE have stepped up their patrols of South Oxfordshire beauty spots after several thefts from cars.

The force took to Twitter yesterday to report a suspicious silver hatchback spotted round beauty spots in the Faringdon and Wantage before the thefts. 

The force then told the Oxford Mail that four cars were broken into at around midday on Friday.

Thieves broke into the vehicles by smashing the windows and stole items including cash, a jacket and a picnic basket.

Later, officers were out at beauty spots in the area to check that drivers were keeping their vehicles secure. 

They said they checked 'dozens' of vehicles and were happy to report they had seen no visible valuables. 

Click here for advice on keeping your car safe from thieves.