Police patrols are being stepped up in the north of the city to try and stem the rising tide of car crime in the area.

Officers from the Norwich North Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) have launched a month-long operation in a bid to reduce offences.

It follows a spate of car crime in the past two weeks which have seen vehicles being targeted in Barclay Road, Hemming Way, Lefroy Road, Bowers Avenue, Rackham Road, Munnings Road, Ash Grove and Watling Road.

As part of the crackdown police will be carrying out increased uniform and plain-clothes patrols across the neighbourhood and officers will also be encouraging motorists to think about vehicle security and to make sure valuables are not left on display.

PC Stuart Daniels, from the Norwich North SNT, said: 'I would urge drivers to make sure vehicles are left locked and secure, even if they are parked on a driveway overnight.

'It only takes opportunist thieves a few seconds to peer into a vehicle and be tempted to steal if expensive items are left on display, even a CD or clothing could attract them.

'Valuables should ideally be removed from the vehicle or at least kept out of sight in the glovebox or boot.'

Police believe many of the incidents are linked and are conducting inquiries to try and trace those responsible.

PC Daniels urged people to report any unusual activity to police. He said: 'I would ask that residents be vigilant and report anything out of the ordinary, whether it's someone seen peering into a car or trying a door, to call police immediately. This way, officers can be dispatched to the scene straight away and have a greater chance of detaining a suspect.'

Crime prevention advice offered by Norfolk police includes:

Don't leave anything on display in your car.

Take your belongings with you when you leave the car, or lock them in the boot if you can't.

Get an alarm installed.

Lock all doors and close windows and the sun roof every time you leave your car unattended.

Anyone with information about car crime should call police on 101.