Cash, an iPhone and a passport are among items stolen from cars in a recent spate of thefts.

Hertfordshire Constabulary are reminding people of Watford to ensure their cars and vans are fully secure and locked after a series of thefts have taken place.

Items stolen from vehicles which, in many cases, have been left unlocked, have included an iPhone, cards, cash, headphones, a passport and a sports bag.

Neighbourhood Inspector Nick Lillitou said: "We’re doing all we can to combat this type of crime but we also need the public to play their part."

Insp Lillitou added people must ensure their cars are locked, as in some cases insurances companies will not pay out if items are stolen from unlocked vehicles.

He added a further warning: "Please also make sure that you remove all valuable items from your vehicle, even from the glove box and boot.

"Leaving items on display makes your vehicle an easy target for opportunist thieves and it takes just seconds for them to break in and steal your belongings."

Anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity should contact Hertfordshire Constabulary on 999 in an emergency.