POLICE in west Suffolk are launching a new "safe sack" initiative to beat opportunist thieves who steal from cars.Officers say that although the crime has been cut dramatically over the past two years, they are keen for drivers in the area not to become complacent and are handing over special bags they can use to carry valuables when they leave their cars.

POLICE in west Suffolk are launching a new "safe sack" initiative to beat opportunist thieves who steal from cars.

Officers say that although the crime has been cut dramatically over the past two years, they are keen for drivers in the area not to become complacent and are handing over special bags they can use to carry valuables when they leave their cars.

Sgt Jo Garrard, who is spearheading the campaign, said it was usually items of value on display in cars which were taken by these criminals: "It only takes a matter of seconds for them to smash a window or force a door to remove them.

"These thieves will seize any chance to gain entry to a vehicle. The police will continue to target this type of criminal, however there are measures that you can take to minimise the risk of your vehicle being targeted.

"The most obvious and simplest of these measures is to remove all items of value from your vehicle. This only takes a matter of minutes but could prevent the heartache of having your possessions stolen and the inconvenience of having to repair any damaged."

She said police were issuing the free "safe sacks" for people to carry their possessions in when they leave their vehicle.

To receive a free bag go to your nearest police station to collect a special leaflet and fill the free post slip attached.

As part of the campaign police will be trying to raise awareness of vehicle crime using leaflets, bus advertising and stickers for motorists to display in their vehicles to indicate that it has been emptied of all valuables.

The campaign has been jointly organised by the police in partnership with Forest Heath and Mid Suffolk district councils and St Edmundsbury Borough Councils.

Sgt Garrard added: "Although Suffolk has one of the lowest levels of recorded vehicle crime in the country, it is hoped that, with the help of local residents and visitors, the figure can be reduced even further.

"Be smart, don't tempt thieves by leaving items of value in your vehicle. They may not be there when you return to your vehicle."