An anti-crime initiative designed to reduce the number of thefts from motor vehicles is to be re-launched thanks to a pioneering partnership between the Police and NCP Services parking attendants working for Parkwise in Burnley.

The Vulnerable Vehicle Scheme will involve Parkwise attendants assisting the Police by keeping an eye open for vehicles which are either insecure or left with valuable items on display. They will note down the registration number for local Police officers who will then send a letter to the registered keeper of the vehicle giving them crime prevention advice.

Every year, Police estimate there are hundreds of opportunist thefts from cars, many of which would have been entirely preventable had the owners not left valuables such as mobiles, satellite navigation systems, handbags, tools, sports bags, jackets, purses and other items on display in their vehicles.

Police say they are delighted that Parkwise has joined the fight against crime and that thanks to their help, the number of cars targeted by thieves may well be significantly reduced.

Inspector Jeremy Holland from Burnley Police said Despite repeated warnings motorists are still leaving items on display in their cars which means we're still experiencing a number of thefts The sad truth is that the majority of these thefts could probably have been prevented.

"Clearly we have a role to play in terms of patrolling areas but motorists have a duty of care too and leaving items on display is, quite simply, an open invitation to thieves"

Inspector Holland added: "This initiative is designed to target the relevant motorists directly and hopefully to encourage them to change their behaviour. In doing so, we can prevent them from experiencing the expense and misery of falling prey to thieves and keep crime levels low

"The scheme has been used in the past to good effect. It is being re-launched in a bid to remind motorists about leaving goods in cars and to refresh crime prevention messages. As long as motorists take note of our letters and follow our advice we are confident it will be a success"

Tim Cowen of NCP Services who supplies parking attendants for Parkwise said "We are pleased to be helping out with this initiative.  NCP Parking Attendants are always keen to help the police - after all, they are a very visible set of eyes and ears on the street, and this can have a beneficial effect in reducing street crime.

"This scheme with Lancashire Constabulary should be very effective and we are very pleased they asked for our assistance."

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