POLICE are stepping up efforts to warn drivers over the rise in catalytic converter thefts.

Dozens of catalytic converters are being stolen from cars in areas across Bracknell and Wokingham in the last couple of months.

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Thames Valley Police has said thieves are mainly targetting Honda Jazz cars and they have seen a "continuing rise" in this crime taking place.

Since October 2019, more than 450 thefts of catalytic converts has been reported across Bracknell, Wokingham and Reading and surrounding areas.

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Residents reported five catalytic converters stolen in Bracknell earlier this month in just one day, in roads including Great Hollands, Underwood and Ringmead.

A spokesman said: "We are continuing to see a rise in theft of catalytic converters targeting a range of vehicles, specifically Honda Jazz’s in Bracknell.

"If you see anything suspicious and are able to do so please record any details such as registration numbers, type of vehicle and colour of vehicle being used by the offenders and call 999 immediately.

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"Please be aware that offenders may look professional wearing hi-visibility clothing, using trolley jacks to get under the cars to remove the catalytic converters.

"If something does not look right, please do not hesitate in reporting this to us!"

Residents living in Bracknell and Wokingham have been given a strong warning to protect their cars