POLICE are warning motorists to be vigilant after several car thefts occurred on the same day within minutes of each other.

Six of the seven incidents happened on Friday, January 5, all in the Marlow and Bourne End area, and police are appealing to people not to leave anything valuable in their cars.

Inspector Andy Kitchen, of Marlow police, explained: "We have asked people not to leave items on display in their cars but now offenders are beginning to look in the boots.

"Nothing valuable should be left in the car and if people take the face off their radios, they should take them with them because thieves are now looking in glove boxes and boots."

The first of the thefts happened on January 4 between 8.30am and 5.45pm in Town Lane, Wooburn Green.

The car was broken into, causing £150 worth of damage and a £2,600 laptop was stolen along with software, printer and mouse all valued at around £500.

The next theft took place in Church Road, Little Marlow, on January 5, between 1pm and 1.30pm when thieves took the door lock barrel out to steal a £3,200 laptop from the boot.

The third incident happened a few minutes later at 1.55pm, on the Causeway, Marlow. This time thieves got away with nothing as the victim disturbed them.

Two other cars were broken into on Marlow Road, at Well End, between 12.35pm and 1.30pm and 1pm and 2pm. A pair of Georgio Armani glasses were stolen and £120 worth of damage was done.

Two further cars were also broken into but nothing was stolen. All the incidents are believed to be linked.

Anyone with information should contact police on (01494) 465888.