Essex Police have launched a high-profile campaign to crack down on car crime.

There were 30,120 offences of vehicle crime committed in the county last year - nearly a third of all recorded crime.

That includes theft of a vehicle, theft from a vehicle, aggravated vehicle taking, vehicle interference and tampering, and criminal damage to a vehicle.

Over the next few weeks special constables will be leafleting car parks with information on how to protect vehicles.

And information will also be circulated to crime prevention schemes and Homewatch co-ordinators.

People will be given advice from where to park their cars to cutting down the risks of buying a stolen one.

Essex Police spokesman Norman Hicks said the campaign was to help motorists reduce the risks of becoming a victim.

"All it takes are a few simple steps to reduce the likelihood of your car being attacked," he said.

Top tips

Remove the ignition key, engage steering lock, close windows and sunroof and lock the doors - even if the car is on your drive or in your garage

Put all belongings out of sight or lock them in the boot. Better still remove them from the car

Park in a well-lit area. Choose designated secured car parks and park in a widely visible bay

Older cars are more likely to be stolen. Consider investing in a steering lock or immobiliser which can be fitted for about £100

When buying a used car check the chassis and vehicle identification numbers against the car's registration documents.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.