THREE classic Ford cars, stolen within four days of each other, could end up sold in bits on the Internet.

According to a Ford mechanic, there is a “ready-made market” on websites for parts from models including the Capri and Escort.

The thefts took place in Herne Bay between Friday, March 17, and the following Monday, prompting police to alert owners of the “modern classics” to be on their guard.

Neighbours saw a blue 1983 Ford Capri being driven away from Churchill Road at 7pm on the Friday, shortly before its owner reported it stolen.

That was followed by the theft of a white 1983 Ford Granada from Mickleburgh Hill on following Sunday night.

Then the next morning a black 1979 Ford Escort was taken from the driveway of a house in Coventry Gardens.

Witnesses saw the car being towed behind a white Ford Transit van towards Faversham on the new Thanet Way.

The mechanic, who asked not to be named, said: “Ford doesn’t make parts made for these cars anymore, except for a few reproductions.

“I would think anyone wanting to make some money from them would have a ready made market on websites like eBay, where a lot of classic parts are bought and sold.”

A police spokesman said: “Although we can not formally link these thefts, it is unusual to have this many cars of such an age stolen over such a short period of time.

The security on older cars is not as good as on a modern vehicle.”

Police urged owners of similar cars to take extra precautions such as locking them in a garage and using steering locks and alarms for those left on the street.