WARNING AFTER NUMBER PLATES STOLEN

The plates are then often attached to another car, which is then sometimes used in crime.

Often the criminals will attach the stolen plates to a similar car, which means that the legitimate plate owner will receive any speed camera or parking fines.

This can result in a considerable amount of stress and inconvenience for that person.

Officers say this crime has become more prevalent as it is now more difficult to get replacement number plates made up without identification and a vehicle registration document.

Sgt Dave Price said: 'This is a worrying trend. I would advise vehicle owners to think carefully about where they park, especially at night. Try to park in a well lit area, where your car can be seen.

'If your cars number plates are attached with screws, consider buying special 'non return' screws to secure them. These are special screws that, once tightened, cannot be undone without drilling them out or breaking the plates.

'These should be available at car accessory shops.

'Many newer cars have their plates attached with nothing more than double sided adhesive tape. Obviously, that makes them especially easy to steal.

'In these cases, I would advise that owners either attach them with a strong impact adhesive, so that removal would break them, or consider having them drilled and non return screws fitted, if the vehicle is suitable'