Police alert after patrols find 14 vehicles left unlocked

The officers were patrolling in the early hours of Tuesday, April 20 and checked every car parked out on the streets.

One of those 14 vehicles that was discovered to have been left unlocked had an expensive set of golf clubs and a laptop in the boot. Police then visited the owners of the cars and warned them to make sure they lock their vehicles in future.

A spokesman for South Yorkshire Police said: "The residents, although surprised to have an officer knocking at their door in the early hours of the morning, were supportive of the police action and rather grateful that it was an officer rather than a thief checking their vehicles."

It follows a spate of car thefts, or thefts from cars, in Wath, Bramley, Aston and Swallownest.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Richard Tweed said: "Officers will be out in these key areas during the evenings and early mornings delivering crime reduction leaflets and trying car doors, checking to see who has left their vehicles unlocked or valuable items on show.

"Anyone who has left their car or van unlocked may find an officer knocking at their door, whatever the time of day or night, reminding them of the need to keep their vehicle secure.

"With support from the communities and information provided to Crimestoppers, officers are continuing to tackle thefts from and of motor vehicles.

"However, it is not unreasonable to ask Rotherham residents to ensure that they always lock their cars and vans when leaving them unattended and take out any valuable items which would be left on view to passers-by."