Police are urging drivers to be vigilant after a number of thefts from cars and vans across Whitstable.

Between Friday, June 17 and Monday, June 20, five vehicles were targeted and items including power tools - including a £600 drill - and sunglasses stolen.

Sergeant Lee Thompson said: "We are urging people to be extra vigilant and if they see anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles to call us on 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.

"We would also like to remind people not to leave valuables in their vehicles as these can be an open invitation to opportunist thieves."

"We would also like to remind people not to leave valuables in their vehicles as these can be an open invitation to opportunist thieves." - Sergeant Lee Thompson

A Makita drill worth £600 was stolen from a Ford Transit van parked on the driveway of a house in Clare Road between 3pm on Sunday, June 19 and 8.20am on Monday, June 20.

Power tools worth more than £1,500 were stolen from a Fiat Ducato van parked in Glebe Way between 6pm on Friday, June 17 and 7.30am on Monday, June 20.

Sunglasses were taken from a Range Rover parked in Preston Parade in Seasalter on Saturday, June 18.

Registration plates were stolen from a Vauxhall Corsa parked in Reservoir Road between noon on Saturday, June 18 and 12.30pm on Monday, June 20 and from a Vauxhall Astra parked in Diamond Road between 5.30pm on Saturday, June 18 and 5pm on Monday, June 20.

Police have offered some advice in reducing the chance of becoming a victim of crime.

They say motorists should ensure all doors and windows are locked, park in a secure and well-lit area, not leave items on display, ensure the vehicle's alarm is switched on, not leaving keys visible and security marking items so they can be identified if found.

Anyone with information about the thefts or who has been offered similar items for sale is asked to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference ZY/20477/16.