Police have issued a warning to car owners in a Wiltshire town after a spate of break-ins overnight.

Nearly 20 reports of car break-ins were reported in the Melksham area during the weekend of Saturday, February 17.

These reports mostly came from the Bowerhill area during Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

Most of the alleged incidents involved offenders carrying out “messy searches” of vehicles and taking loose change that was left in glove compartments.

Wiltshire Police has now stepped up its patrols in the area and investigating officers are carrying out extensive enquiries to identify suspects.

Anyone with information about the incidents, or those who may have been victims, has been urged to contact police on 101 and quote crime reference number 54240019298.

Alternatively, information can be passed to CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

In the meantime, residents have been warned to remain vigilant and follow police advice to reduce the chances of their vehicles being targeted.

Car owners should keep their vehicles locked and secure and parked in a well-lit area, in view of any CCTV or doorbell cameras.

Valuables such as wallets, phones and Sat Navs should not be left on display and any items of value should be photographed or marked.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity should call 999, noting the descriptions of those involved.