THERE were more than 1,500 vehicle thefts last year, a Freedom of Information (FOI) request has shown.

Between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2023, there were 4289 reported vehicle thefts, the FOI shows.

In 2023, there were 1663 thefts, up from the year prior when the figure stood at 1540 and higher still than in 2021 when the number was 1086

There are myriad steps drivers can take to reduce the risk of having their vehicle stolen.

First and foremost, ensuring the vehicle is locked and that the keys are stored safely.

Devon and Cornwall Police say that being car-jacker aware, as well as keeping an eye out for illegal tow-trucks is important too.

If police find a vehicle that's been reported lost or stolen it will arrange for it to be moved to a police recovery garage for safekeeping.