Police Scotland have reiterated their warning to Dumbarton and Vale residents to secure their properties following a “slight rise in opportunist thefts”.

According to cops, they have received reports of persons entering insecure dwellings and stealing jewellery, and on one occasion car keys – leading to the theft of the vehicle itself from the driveway.

Inspector Roddy MacNeill, from Dumbarton Police, said: “Be aware at this time of year. If you are in a rear garden, lock the front door, ensure sheds and garages are secured.

“Ensure car and house keys are not lying inside the front door and can be accessed via a letterbox using a rod or similar.”