There has been a rise in the number of break-ins in the Nottinghamshire area where the object has been car keys.

It is thought improved car security has prompted thieves to find new ways of taking cars.

Police are advising vehicles should be put in garages where possible and keys kept close by.

What we have identified is a trend where people have their homes broken into overnight and their car keys stolen

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Cleminson

Last year there were 227 break-ins of this type recorded by Nottinghamshire police.

This year there have already been 280.

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Cleminson said: "What we have identified is a trend where people have their homes broken into overnight and their car keys stolen.

"Then the car itself is stolen in the next few days or, more commonly, the same night."

Many of the break-ins have been in the Thorneywood and West Bridgford areas of Nottingham.

Car dealers have said major improvements in car security mean traditional methods of forcing entry into cars are less effective.