Police are warning visitors to Sidmouth beauty spots to remove valuables from their vehicles after a spate of thefts in the locality.

Places that have been targeted include Peak Hill in Sidmouth, Weston, Salcombe Regis, Salcombe Hill and Blackberry Camp.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "East Devon is a beautiful part of the world and there are many locations that are ideal for walkers, hikers and dog walkers to enjoy.

"However, if you are using a vehicle to get to these local beauty spots, please remember that it only takes seconds for a thief to break into your car and take valuables from it."

The force is advising motorists to take a number of precautions including:

• Lock your vehicles and close windows.

• Remove valuable items such as mobiles, money, mp3 player, house keys and sat navs. Putting items in the boot of the car does not necessarily mean that they are safe. Thieves are known to watch vehicles arriving and then target vehicles where they have seen the occupants put items in the boot.

• Keep nothing on display.

• Park your vehicle in a safe place. Look around to see if someone is watching you.

• Property mark your possessions - this helps the police to identify the owner of the items if they are stolen and located. You can also register your valuables here.

• If you see anyone acting suspiciously in and around the car parks - in particular anyone who looks out of place hanging around the location, either in or out of a vehicle.

• Do not leave your own vehicle unattended and immediately contact the police on 101 (either by phone or online here or 999.

"If possible, try and make a note of any vehicle registration number seen, together with vehicle details and a description of the person acting suspiciously," added the police spokesperson.