Fresh drive to tackle car break-ins

Officers say there has been a notable rise in cars being broken into in January, with the thieves using bricks to smash the vehicle's windows before stealing property left inside.

The Cold Bath Road and Duchy areas of town have been particularly targeted.

Now to combat the number of thefts, North Yorkshire Police have launched Operation Umbrage to educate residents about leaving valuables on display in cars and provides a visible police presence across the area.

Inspector Will Scarlett, of Harrogate Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "We are asking people to be vigilant and ensure that they remove all valuables from their vehicles when parking them up for the night.

"Don't leave items which are tempting to thieves on display."

As part of the campaign, officers will be sending letters offering crime prevention advice to vehicle owners who are not taking care to keep their property out of sight and distributing mirror hangers saying, 'There is nothing in the vehicle to steal'.