Precious metals stolen from cars

Thieves have been using a hydraulic jack to steal catalytic converters from vehicles in Berkshire.

More than 25 of the exhaust systems have been stolen in the east of the county this week, mainly in Windsor and Maidenhead.

The majority of the thefts took place on Wednesday, although some similar thefts occurred in Slough on Friday.

It is thought that the high price of precious metals, especially platinum, has led to the thefts, police said.

Thames Valley Police have warned vehicle owners to be on their guard and have issued the following advice.

• Park in garages whenever possible.
• Park in conspicuous, well-lit areas, such as the middle of car parks.
• When parked in business premises and industrial estates, ensure vehicles are reversed into the parking space, restricting access to the exhaust.
• Listen for vehicle alarms.
• If CCTV is available, ensure that the operators are aware of the problem.
• Consider scratching your postcode into the surface of the catalytic converter.