THIEVES are prowling Greenock streets after dark and taking valuables from parked vehicles in the west end and elsewhere.

Targeted thefts from cars and vans have spiked in recent weeks and police are stepping up patrols and urging late-night workers to report suspicious activity immediately.

Meanwhile, concerned residents have taken to social media to further widen the alert.

Inspector Julie MacDonald, of Greenock police, confirmed: "There has been a rise in the number of thefts from motor vehicles within the Inverclyde area over recent weeks.

"The majority, if not all, of these crimes occur overnight.

"We are appealing to the public to ensure they don't leave any valuables or loose change within their vehicles and to ensure their vehicles are locked."

One Facebook post revealed that two locked cars in the west end had been targeted earlier this week.

The poster wrote: "Both cases the cars were locked and no forced entry. One was in a driveway.

"Not much to steal thankfully although the lock and wheel nuts for one were taken, so not sure whether alloys are the target."

The areas identified as having been affected by the spate of thefts are Gateside Gardens, Bow Road and 'surrounding streets' in Greenock as well as the west end's Newton, Margaret, Denholm and Forsyth streets.

Inspector MacDonald said: "We would urge people, especially those who work through the night, such as delivery and taxi drivers, to contact police if they see anything suspicious.

"Additional uniform and plain clothes officers have been deployed to these areas."

The inspector added: "If anyone has any knowledge or information which may lead to the identification of the person involved, please contact us."

Information should be passed on via the 101 number, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.