AVON and Somerset Police has ranked eighth across England and Wales for the highest number of vehicle crimes. 

Figures gathered by Click4Reg have revealed that there was 11,735 vehicle crimes across the region in 2016.  

The force ranks eighth out of 43 police constabularies across England and Wales. 

Click4Reg gathered the figures from data.police.uk by looking at the number of vehicle crimes that were reported to each force. 

A 'vehicle crime' is defined as "theft from or of a vehicle or interference with a vehicle". 

Metropolitan Police in London had the highest number of vehicle crimes reported with 89,900, with City of London had the fewest incidents reported with 177.

Devon and Cornwall Police had 4,679 incidents reported, ranking 27th, and Dorset Police had 3,418, 31st. 

Elie Fakhoury, managing director of Click4Reg.co.uk said: “The figures are certainly fascinating.

"Vehicle crime is certainly more prevalent than anyone would expect. Whilst unfortunate, there are various effective actions that drivers can take to safeguard their vehicle from any potential crime.

"All drivers should aim to make simple steps such as locking doors and removing all valuable possessions when not in their vehicle a habit. Making such behaviours a daily routine, will go a long way in protecting driver’s vehicles from opportunist criminals and thieves.

"Overall, more awareness and precaution from drivers can go a significantly long way in reducing the numbers of vehicle crime across the UK."

Click4Reg’s top five tips to reduce the risk of being a victim of vehicle crime: 

  • Doors and Windows - Make every effort to close all windows and fully lock the vehicle when leaving it at your own property, at work or elsewhere. 
  • Valuable Possessions - Remove all valuable possessions out of plain sight when not in the vehicle - especially money, wallets, purses and electronic items (including radio).  
  • Parking - Always aim to park your vehicle in a well-lit area, as sufficient lighting will more than likely deter criminals and thieves from targeting your vehicle. 
  • Planning - If you’re making journeys to unfamiliar locations and sites, plan ahead to avoid driving through, and parking in any high crime areas. 
  • Extra protection – A car alarm or steering wheel lock can go a long way in adding extra security for your vehicle.