Police are advising owners of larger vehicles like vans and 4x4s to make sure that their externally located spare wheels are secured to their vehicles.

The advice follows the theft of six large, spare wheels from three vehicles in Wallington and three in Worcester Park since the beginning of July. The latest of these incidents were within a few doors of each other in Sandy Lane South, Wallington recently. The vehicles targeted were a VW Transporter and a VW Caravelle.

In many vehicles spare wheels are held in position by a metal cage secured to the chassis. Thieves simply cut the cage to remove the spare wheel. PC Duncan Harris, of Sutton’s Crime Prevention Team, said spare wheels are expensive to replace but could be hugely inconvenient leaving drivers and families stranded. “Security devices should be considered as they make vehicles less attractive targets because they slow thieves down and make the process of stealing that much more difficult. Speak to your vehicle manufacturer or supplier or check online to see what security products would best suit your vehicle,” he said.

PC Harris urged all residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to police immediately on 999. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.