It's not only children who love Easter – but thieves too.

But they are not after tasty treats like chocolate eggs but the valuables motorists leave in vehicles when parked at beautyspots during the bank holiday or half-term break.

Vehicle crime reduction officer Lara Curtayne advises motorists to remove everything of value from vehicles, including satellite navigation systems and coats and bags, which offenders may assume have valuables inside.

She said: "It is an unfortunate fact that cases of cars being broken into traditionally increase as more people get out and about to take advantage of the better weather.

"Police will be doing all they can to apprehend offenders but the public can help by taking simple security steps. These are particularly important when parking at beautyspots, since thieves know you are likely to be away from the vehicle for some time."

Miss Curtayne advised motorists to:

** Lock doors and windows and, if you have a sun roof, shut it

** If you have a removable stereo, take it with you

** If you have an alarm, or other security devices, use them

** Park in the best used, and well-lit, location you can find

** Never be tempted to leave cheque books, cards, mobile telephones or documents or house keys in cars

** Don't assume by putting valuables in the boot they will be safe – thieves could be watching.

Anyone with information about vehicle crime can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

****

Police have also issued crime prevention advice to youngsters for the holiday period.

When the schools are off it can bring an increase in incidents of youngsters attacking or robbing their peers.

Crime reduction officer PC John Shiels said: "We don't want to alarm young people, but remind them about the simple steps they can take to avoid crime.

"These days we all own electrical gadgets, but when out and about it's wise to keep them out of sight."

Ways to avoid becoming a victim of crime over Easter include:

*Keep telephones out of sight, rather than chat to friends or text messages while walking along;

*Don't walk along listening to a personal stereo such as an MP3, since not only are you advertising you have something of value, but you are less likely to be aware of what is going on around you;

*If you value your bicycle then ensure it is security marked and fit it with a 'Cycle Coded' sticker. If you leave it unattended lock it to something solid like a lamppost and remember quick-release wheels should be secured to the frame;

*Cyclists and walkers should avoid remote areas and those returning home at night are advised to team up with friends or arrange lifts in advance with reputable cab firms;

*Never carry excessive amounts of cash;

*Cover up expensive-looking jewellery;

*Carry bags close to your body with the clasp facing inwards;

*Let your parents know where you are going and when you will be back;

*Don't hitch-hike or accept lifts from strangers;

*If you think someone is following you go to the nearest place where there is a lot of people and call police;

*Consider purchasing a personal attack alarm;

*Never be tempted to buy good which could be stolen – or drugs – and report your suspicions to police;

*Don't dabble with alcohol, it makes you more vulnerable to crime;

*If you are being bullied, tell an adult.

Anyone with information on robbery can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.