POLICE in Andover are backing a government campaign launched this week urging motorists to lock their cars and protect any items inside.

The Home Office is spending more than £5 million on national advertising involving TV and radio adverts, billboard posters, information on the back of car park tickets and parking meters.

The message is clear: 'when you leave your car, lock your car' and 'never leave your stuff on show'.

Hugh Marriage, the crime reduction officer for the South East, said: "Vehicle crime is at its lowest point in 20 years but it is still a serious problem.

"Last year nearly one in ten vehicle-owning households in the South East experienced vehicle crime.

"Some people are more likely than others to have their car broken into or stolen and this campaign targets motorists who are most at risk, including more than ten per cent of people who do not lock their cars," said Mr Marriage.

The Government has a commitment to reduce vehicle crime by 30 per cent by 2004, and hopes advertising like this will help.

"Urging people to lock their cars and keep any valuables with them, is something we have been stressing for years," said Pc Ted Reynolds from Andover CID.

"The advice is always offered - not just from us, but from banks and insurance companies - but people chose not to pay attention.

"It's not until you have been a victim of the crime that you realise the misery it causes.

"But unfortunately, it's those who haven't been victims who are continuing with their old ways."