Two brothers who stole catalytic converters from cars and sold them for thousands of pounds have each been jailed for three years.

William and Patrick Stokes preyed on motorists in Kent and elsewhere, causing financial loss to them and insurance companies.

Maidstone Crown Court heard the parts were stolen because they contained valuable metals such as platinum.

A company called PRL in Swindon was prepared to buy them from the brothers for just under £100 each.

“They met these defendants, generally speaking in car parks, and handed over cash from time to time to them,” said Judge Jeremy Carey.

Between January and May this year they sold about 348 for over £55,000.

They would often be taken when owners had parked their cars to go shopping.

It meant they could not drive far without the car breaking down.

One victim, retired Thomas Bartlett, had his catalytic converter stolen while he was attending an appointment at Darent Valley Hospital.

Nicola Robertson had hers taken while she was shopping at Asda in Canterbury.

Her car cost £3,500 to repair. She had a £400 excess on her insurance policy and her premium increased as a result.

William Stokes, 27, of Basingstoke, Hampshire, and Patrick Stokes, 23, of Northolt, Middlesex, admitted conspiracy to steal.

Judge Carey said the crime deeply affected decent, law-abiding people.

“It is well known there is a continuing and escalating trade in metals,” he said. “This required a considerable degree of planning. It was relatively sophisticated.

“The defendants drove about, usually in a vehicle that had a cloned number plate. That had the effect of casting suspicion on the true owners.

“The level of damage was extensive and the amounts involved were considerable. What is relevant is the effect of the criminal conduct on those who have to cope with it.”

The judge told the brothers: “Your offending was serious and you will be sentenced to a substantial term of imprisonment.

“I make plain the full scope of your criminal activity, which on any view is extremely serious and had a wide-ranging effect on a large number of people.”