Rutland Neighbourhood Watch has issued a warning that thieves are stealing catalytic converters from vehicles.

The group has posted: "Unfortunately, Melton and Rutland has seen an increase in Catalytic Converter thefts and attempt thefts over the last week.

"Please help us to try and keep this type of vehicle crime to a minimum, by remaining vigilant, reporting anything suspicious and by reading the following crime prevention advice below.

"Please take steps to secure your vehicle's catalytic converter.

The warning continued: "The precious metal in catalytic converters has led to the increase in their theft. To keep your catalytic converter and vehicle safe, ask your car dealer if they can give you any advice on locks or guards that are approved by the vehicle manufacturer.

"Thieves target vehicles for the scrap value of the metals within the catalytic converters and it often only takes then a matter of seconds to remove the exhaust. Offences are taking place both over night and in the daytime in quite visible locations such as public car parks.

"Criminals will often park next to a victim's car wearing high visibility tops to make it look as if they are changing a flat tyre. If challenged, they will often claim to have been accidentally working on the wrong vehicle by mistake.Alternatively, try to make sure your vehicle is parked in a garage overnight, or if you have a commercial vehicle park it in a secure compound.

"If this isn't possible, park in an area that's well-lit and overlooked and try to park so that the convertor can't be easily reached by potential thieves.

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"Vehicles that sit high above the road are particularly vulnerable. All vehicles are vulnerable, but criminals do seem to be targeting low emission Japanese cars in particular.

"You should also register your converter and mark it with a forensic marker, which will make it harder for thieves to dispose of."

More official information on how to protect your vehicle can be found on the following link.

The warning added: "Please make sure that you park your vehicle in a visible area with adequate lighting. If available, then park near CCTV and speak to your local dealer about installing security devices to the vehicle. Please also keep an eye on neighbours' cars and, if you see anything suspicious either at home or in a public area, then contact the police immediately."

Anyone who sees such crime taking place are asked to report crime online at http://www.leics.police.uk or by calling 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency.