POLICE are warning motorists to keep their valuables safe when enjoying beauty spots in north Hampshire.

Historically, police see a rise in thefts from beauty spot car parks during the spring and summer months, when more people are out and about enjoying the countryside.

To reduce your chances of becoming a victim of car crime, police advise to remove all valuables from your vehicle when leaving it unoccupied.

Although most people are aware of the risks of leaving valuables on display in cars, police said some people do not consider the risk of hiding items in boots, under seats or in glove boxes.

Most offences of theft from vehicles are opportunist.

If handbags, sat navs, mobile phones and cameras are left inside a vehicle, it is much more likely to be targeted by thieves.

Police advise:

• When leaving your car, close all windows and lock your car.

• Don't leave anything on display in your vehicle.

• Take all your personal possessions with you.

• Remove sat nav holders and visible sat nav ring marks from windscreens.

• Leave the glove box open to show there's nothing inside.

• Fit an alarm or immobiliser to your car.