More patrols to beat night crime

Night-time patrols are to be increased in part of Bedford following an increase in the number of thefts from cars and garages.

Bedfordshire Police said it was going to put officers on beats around Wansbeck Road and Brickhill Drive in Bedford in response to the thefts.

People living in the area have said items from DIY tools to bottles of wine have been stolen from garages.

Police said high-visibility patrols would act as a deterrent.

Two cars stolen from other areas of Bedford have been found dumped in Plover Way and police said these could have been used by criminals committing other crimes.

Residents are being advised to not leave property on display in their cars and vans, and to make sure vehicles and garages are locked and alarms used.

Sgt John Holdsworth, from Bedfordshire Police, said: "We'd especially like to hear about cars which residents think have been abandoned, or look suspicious or out of place as they may be being used in this spate of night-time crime."