People are being told not to leave valuables in their cars

However, officers claim there is still more action motorists can take to protect their vehicle.

A series of car safe days - where officers hand out leaflets advising drivers how to deter thieves - are being held by the police in south east Cornwall.

The deputy commander of the police in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Superintendent John Green, said it was essential people removed the opportunity for thieves.

He said: "We can't do this on our own.

"We work with several partners, to make sure, for instance, lighting is better laid out and improved.

"But we also need the people of Cornwall to be a lot more aware of not leaving equipment, bags and money in their on cars."