Cambridgeshire police are warning motorists to protect their vehicles after a spate of catalytic converter thefts.

Officers said they had dealt with eight incidents of convertors being stolen in Cambridgeshire in the last two weeks, bringing the total to 75 since April 2010.

Thieves had targeted Ford Rangers, pick up vehicles and other 4x4 vehicles in the incidents.

PCSO Ian Hawkins said: “While we’re doing all we can to prevent thefts and identify the thieves, look out for your own cars and your neighbours.

“Ford Rangers and 4 x 4 vehicles are being targeted because the gap between the ground and bottom of the vehicle is greater than on other types of cars.”

PCSO Hawkins said vehicle owners should, where possible, keep their vehicle in a garage or try to park with the front or side of the vehicle parked up to, or alongside, a garage, building wall or fence to restrict access.

He added: “If you have more than one vehicle, try to park them bonnet-to-bonnet or alongside each other to restrict access to the underside of the vehicle.”

If you see anything suspicious or see anyone trying to sell converters, you can contact Cambridgeshire police on 0345 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.