Warning for motorists following ‘mindless damage’ to cars and vans in Worthing

Sussex Police has received an increased number of reports from residents in the Queen Street and South Farm Road areas as well as Pavilion Road and Eastcourt Road and West Court Road over the last few months.

The Beckett Road, St Dunstans and Church Road areas in Tarring have also experienced a higher level of reports concerning damage to wing mirrors, windows, cars being ‘keyed’ as well as paint being thrown over vehicles.

PCSO Cathy Dines said: “Please ensure when leaving your vehicle, it is locked and any alarms are set. If possible, please try and park it in a well lit area as this damage is being caused once it becomes dark.

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“Vehicle crime has been identified as a priority for the Gaisford Neighbourhood Panel and we will be carrying out a number of activities to curb the incidents.”

The next Gaisford Neighbourhood Panel is on Monday February 3 at Northbrook College, Broadwater Road from 7pm to 8pm.

Please consider the following advice when you next park your car:

If you have a garage, use it at every opportunity.

If parking in a driveway, close any gates behind you and position your vehicle so it is illuminated by either your own lights or street lighting.

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If you must park on the road, at home or elsewhere, choose well lit areas and where it will be seen by passersby and residents and tuck in both wing mirrors.

Always check the windows and sunroof are securely locked before leaving the vehicle.

An alarm will startle any would-be car thief. Displaying an alarm warning sticker and the alarm’s red flashing light will also help deter them.

Consider having an immobiliser fitted to your vehicle if you do not already have one.

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Never leave valuables on display. Car radios, wallets, sat navs and mobile phones are favourites for a thief.

Always report anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles parked in your road and ring 999 if you see any damage taking place.

If you have any information please call Sussex Police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.