Car crime-cutting scheme set up

Police are targeting the force-wide area

A drive to cut car crime has been launched by Avon and Somerset Police.

The week-long operation will involve both overt and covert work as police try to cut car crime in the area.

In Bristol, police will be working in partnership with NCP staff to target vehicle crime hotspots, using a covert capture car and patrols.

In Bath, police will be concentrating on outstanding warrants; while in Keynsham, there will be extra covert and overt patrols.

Crime-prevention leaflets

Inspector Nigel Tinsley-Such said: "Vehicle crime continues to be a persistent problem throughout the force area.

"The force is committed to tackling volume crime and it was decided that an effective way to help make a significant impact on this problem was to have a co-ordinated, dedicated, week-long effort."

Other initiatives are planned throughout the area, including Operation Jape in Weston-super-Mare, involving extra patrols and targeting named suspects.

In Burnham-on-Sea and Cheddar, police and special constables will be delivering leaflets about vehicle crime.