Dorset has the fourth lowest rate of vehicle vandalism in the UK, according to a new study.

Research from MoneySuperMarket suggests that Dorset has one of the lowest rates of vehicle vandalism in the country, with there being 1.76 cases per 1,000 members of the population.

The only areas with lower rates are Isles of Scilly (0.89), Rutland (1.70), and Broadland (1.71).

Conversely, the areas with the highest rates are South Nottinghamshire (11.65), the City of London (10.71) and Middlesbrough (8.46).

The data also showed that the makes of car most likely to be targeted are Mercedes, BMW and Fiat, while Seat, Citroen and Honda are the least likely.

In addition, more acts of vandalism against convertibles, coupes and saloons were reported than against MPVs, hatchbacks and estates, and green and black vehicles are statistically the most likely to be targeted while blue cars are the least likely to be vandalised.

This data was gathered from 230,000 offences that were reported to major insurance providers and police force areas from April 2017 to March 2018.

It also suggests that only 26 per cent of victims report incidents of vehicle vandalism to their insurer.

Rachel Wait, consumer affairs spokesperson at MoneySuperMarket, said: "Only one in four victims of vandalism decide to report the incident to their insurance company, possibly due to concerns about losing their no-claims discount.

"However, some insurance providers protect a driver’s no-claims bonus for cases of vandalism, so it’s worth double checking your policy as you may be protected without realising.

"A comprehensive car insurance policy is likely to cover you for these offences, as opposed to a third-party policy.

"Be sure to shop around for the best deal online and look out for vandalism cover in your policy for peace of mind."

Dorset Police are offering advice to people on how to protect their cars from theft and vandalism.

They suggest that people always lock their vehicles, close windows and sunroofs, and always park in well lit areas.

People should also not leave items on display, and use car alarms.

More information can be found at dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention