LETTERS are being sent to vehicle owners across Fenland as police look to raise awareness of catalytic converter thefts.

Ford Rangers and 4 x 4 vehicles have been targeted because the gap between the ground and the bottom of the vehicle is greater than on other types of cars.

Residents have been advised:

- If you have a garage, try to park your vehicle inside. If that is not possible, try to park with the front or side of the vehicle parked up to, or alongside, a garage, building wall or fence to restrict access.

- If you have more than one vehicle, try to park them bonnet-to-bonnet or alongside each other to restrict access to the underside of the vehicle.

- Consider installing a movement activated security light to provide coverage over the area in which your vehicle is usually parked.

Detective Chief Inspector Donna Wass said: “I urge people to remain vigilant as there has been no clear pattern to the crimes.

“We have experienced the largest number of catalytic converter thefts with 12 being stolen in one week. There have been 67 thefts in total since April 2010.

“Favoured vehicles seem to be Ford Rangers, but Ford Transits and other 4x4 vehicles are also being targeted.

“While officers are doing all they can to prevent thefts and identify the thieves, vehicle owners must be vigilant about this crime, look out for your own cars and your neighbours’.

“If you see anything suspicious or see anyone trying to sell converters please let us know.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0345 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.