Police in Neath Port Talbot are reminding motorists about the importance of ensuring their vehicles are securely locked and all valuables removed when left unattended.

The warning follows a number of thefts from parked cars across the towns which occurred over the weekend.

The crimes included a coat being stolen from an unlocked car at Efail Fach in Pontrhydyfen and a wallet containing bank cards and cash taken from an insecure car in Margam.

Further incidents saw £200 being stolen from a handbag left inside a vehicle which had its window open and a window being smashed to grab a SatNav which had been left on display.

Port Talbot Neighbourhood Inspector Karl Eenmaa said: “All too often motorists have left personal belongings visible in their cars when they have left them parked and unattended.

“A number of the thefts were of possessions which were left on display in parked, insecure cars. These are crimes which could have been avoided if the motorists had remembered to remove their valuables and lock their cars.

“I urge motorists not to be complacent. Do not leave anything of value in your cars when they are parked and unattended. You should always take any valuables with you and make sure all doors and windows are made secure before leaving your vehicle.

“If you see anything or people behaving in a manner that strikes you at all unusual please do not hesitate to report it to the police immediately. It is by working together that we can continue to keep Neath Port Talbot safe.”