As the nights draw in and the days grow shorter, Avon and Somerset Police are urging residents in Shepton to take extra precautions to keep their belongings safe from opportunistic thieves. Recent reports indicate a rise in vehicle-related thefts, with the cover of darkness providing ideal conditions for criminals seeking an easy target.

With vehicle crime on the rise, officers are reminding people not to leave valuables in plain sight and to always secure their cars properly.

"Darker nights give thieves more opportunities to take what doesn't belong to them," said a police spokesperson. "They're often on the lookout for unlocked or unattended vehicles. Don't make it easy for them."

Residents in Shepton are encouraged to take these steps to protect their vehicles and belongings:

• Double-check that your car is locked before walking away.
• Remove any valuables, such as dash cams or sat navs, and avoid leaving items in the glove box.
• Keep shopping bags or other items out of sight.
• Consider installing an alarm or immobiliser.
• If you have a garage, use it for parking.

For more safety tips, visit the Avon and Somerset Police website. Residents can also report any concerns or suspicious activity to the police and are encouraged to share their feedback on local issues via the Avon and Somerset Talking platform.