Police in Maidstone are reminding motorists the keep their valuables secure following a spate of thefts around the town.

Seven incidents are reported to have occurred overnight on Wednesday, December 9, with two the following day.

Three of the reported thefts occurred in Boxley Road while two were in Coltsfoot Drive. The others were reportedly committed in Wordsworth Road, Sandling Lane, Byron Road, Eyhorne Green and Dover Street.

Items reportedly stolen included laptop computers, mobile telephones, satnavs and power tools.

Matthew Payne, who lives in Boxley Road, alleged his wife’s handbag was stolen. He said: “When I was leaving my house I discovered someone has broken into my car and stolen my wife’s handbag.

“I was astounded as it was parked right on our drive outside the front door and there is a lot of traffic which used the road in front of my house."

Inspector Jody Gagan-Cook of the Maidstone community safety unit added: “It is very rare to have as many as nine such incidents committed in such a short space of time and we are not ruling out the possibility that some of these may be linked.

“In some instances entry was forced – for example by smashing a window – but in others the vehicles were left insecure.

“We would like to remind residents of the measure they can take to reduce the chances of becoming victims of crime, such as parking in well-lit areas and making sure doors are locked and windows are closed.

“It is also advisable to remove all valuables from your vehicle overnight if possible so that any would-be criminals will be left disappointed if they do decide to target your vehicle.”

Do you have any information? Call 101 quoting reference YY/24947/15.