Police warning after spate of thefts at Derbyshire Dales car parks

Motorists in the Derbyshire Dales are being urged to boost their security following thefts at beauty spot car parks.

Safer Neighbourhood teams across the area are urging drivers to take extra care in ensuring that no valuables are left in their vehicles, especially those parked in popular tourist spots.

Over the past few days, police have received a number of reports of vehicles being targeted in rural locations across the Derbyshire Dales.

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Thieves made off with a Tom Tom sat-nav, a purse and a purple Karrimor bag after using a rock to smash the window of a Ford C-Max.

The incident took place at Topley Pike layby sometime between 10.15am and 2pm on Wednesday, February 24.

Similar incidents have also taken place on Wednesday and Thursday which saw the windows of vehicles being smashed and items including cash, a sat-nav and a head torch being stolen. The thefts took place in Grindleford, Chesterfield Road in Rowsley, Matlock, and a layby along the A6 in Ashford-in-the-Water.

Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Andy Wordsworth said: “Please remember, if you leave nothing in, nothing can be taken out so taking simple steps to protect your vehicles can save a lot of distress and can prevent you from becoming a victim of crime.

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“Thieves will try their luck if they think there is a chance valuables will be left inside, so our advice is to always take your items with you when you can and ensure that no valuables are left on display.

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“Over the past two days, sat-navs in particular have been stolen from the cars so we are urging drivers to remove these completely when you park up, taking down the cradle and wiping any marks off the screen to help deter a criminal.”

If you spot anyone acting suspiciously around parked and unattended vehicles, call police straight away on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

To speak to your local Safer Neighbourhood Team call 101, the non-emergency number for Derbyshire police.