NEIGHBOURS are shocked after thieves targeted three cars on the same night.

But crime statistics show that vehicle-related crime in Stroud has fallen.

Last year there were 32 cases a month, but this year they are running at 26 a month, according to ukcrimestats.com.

Crooks tried to get away with cars in Padin Close and Hawk Close, Chalford, and stole a white VW Golf from Robin Close, Bussage, last Friday.

Bev Roesen, the owner of the Golf, said thieves had got into her house through a window and taken her wallet and car keys. Other items, including a laptop and camera, were left untouched.

Her wallet was found with other items in a layby outside Coates, near Cirencester, and was returned to her.

In other recent incidents a Ford Transit van carrying a beloved pet’s ashes was stolen in Avening.

Several horse trailers were also stolen in and around Stroud earlier this year. One, a Williams 511 worth about £4,000, was taken from Ruscombe Farm in August.

This month a Bretagne 7 series caravan was stolen from near Chestnut Lane in Stroud.

A spokeswoman for Gloucestershire police said: “Being a victim of burglary, whether your personal belongings are stolen or your vehicle is, extremely distressing.

“Our data shows there has been a significant reduction in vehicle crime compared with the same period last year.”

Despite this improvement, vehicle-related crime remains a fear for some.

Discussing the incidents in Chalford, the parish council said that the thefts were worrying, and that residents should call police if they have information.

“Crime rates are usually low in the village, so please be extra vigilant with your household security and report any suspicious activity to the police,” said a parish spokeswoman.

However, Gloucestershire Police have set out some simple steps people can take to protect their homes.

"There are a number of steps people can take to help protect their homes against burglary," added the police spokeswoman.

"This can be simple things such as checking your doors and windows are locked, using light timer switches and making sure there are no tools insecure in your own garden which could be used to enter your home.

"We would urge people to remain vigilant and report any concerns to police. Please also visit the Staying Safe section of our website where you can learn how to help protect your home."

You can learn how to help protect your home and download the checklist at bit.ly/winterhomecheck