POLICE in the Scottish Borders have recently received a number of reports of thefts of valuables from vehicles parked in Hawick.

Officers are now reminding the public to follow these simple steps to protect their property.

Always ensure that your vehicle is locked when leaving it - check the door handles before you walk away.

Make sure you remove items of value from your vehicle when leaving it unoccupied - bags, laptops, money, mobile phones, tools and other portable items are easy to steal.

If you have to leave items in the car, keep them out of sight – ideally in the boot.

Try to park in busy, well-lit and populated areas

Offences can take place anywhere, in a car park, at the side of the road or even when your car is on your drive.

If possible, park your vehicle in a garage.