Police warn motorists not to even hide valuables in boots after New Forest car breaks-ins at Bramshaw Wood and Penn Common

POLICE are reminding motorists not to leave valuables in their cars when visiting the New Forest following a spate of break-ins last weekend.

People are being told to not even try “hiding” items in the boot after one of the incidents saw a vehicle’s rear window smashed to gain access to the boot.

Bags and money were stolen in the raids, which took place at Bramshaw Wood car park and on Penn Common, near Bramshaw.

An image of the broken rear car window was shared by local police on Facebook as a warning to motorists.

“One of the thefts involved the back window being smashed so that the thieves could get access to the boot – this means they were watching while the owners ‘hid’ their valuables there before going for their walk,” the post said.

“The beautiful weather will mean more thieves operating in the Forest so never leave anything valuable in your vehicle, take everything with you.

“And don’t hide anything in the boot because you never know who is watching you.”