Police have issued advice to motorists after a recent spate of vehicle thefts in West Dunbartonshire.

In the past few months a number vans have been stolen, in particular Ford Transit vans.

In the wake of the incidents, residents are being urged to lock their vehicles and keep the keys secure within their home, away from the main entrances and not on display.

It is also important to remove tools and valuable items from your car when unattended, try to park in a well-lit area, lock gates and garages and position movement sensor lighting to activate in case anyone approaches your vehicle or home.

Chief Inspector Scott Carlin said: “Our enquiries into recent incidents are continuing and I am encouraging anyone with information on those responsible to contact Police Scotland by calling 101 or to call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.

“We are reminding the owners of vans, especially Ford Transit vans to remove all valuables from their vehicle, to ensure their vehicles are secure and to consider additional security measures such as a steering lock, or even blocking their van in, for example with another car.

“These vans are normally for use in connection with a person’s business and these thefts will undoubtedly have a detrimental effect on the victim's ability to work and to earn a living, for this reason we are encouraging anyone who sees someone acting suspiciously to get in touch.”