People in Dorset are being reminded to protect their valuables from opportunistic thieves.

Dorset Community Safety Partnership says that there has been an increase in what is known as acquisitive crime – in particular burglary and theft from vehicles.

The current economic climate is being blamed for the upsurge.

Councillor Ray Nottage, chair of Dorset Community Safety Partnership, said: “Thieves operate when they’re given an easy opportunity.

“The best way to stop thieves is to remove the temptation.”