POLICE across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire are urging homeowners to keep windows and doors securely locked at night following a spate of car thefts.

Last week three cars were stolen in Renfrew in one night and two men were also disturbed trying to steal a black Mercedes in the town.

A black Freelander with a ‘10 plate was taken with its keys from Fairfield Drive and a white Audi TT was snatched with its keys in King George Way.

A black Nissan Micra was also taken with its keys from Wright Street and two men, who have now been arrested, attempted to take a black Mercedes A180 from Marjory Road, but left empty handed.

And, over in East Renfrewshire, a car was stolen from a home in Carlibar Road in Barrhead before it was driven off and involved in a road accident in nearby Crossmill Avenue.

A 16-year-old man has appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court in relation to the alleged theft as well as a number of road traffic offences.

Inspector Cassie Glass, based in Johnstone, said: “Please do not leave keys in full view and keep your windows and doors locked. I know it gets hot at this time of year but poor security allows criminals to have a field day.

“We are making enquiries into all these incidents.”

Police in East Renfrewshire have also warned of the dangers of car thefts this summer, with officers advising residents to act sensibly.

A spokesman for East Renfrewshire Police said: “The majority of car thefts in East Renfrewshire are the result of car keys being taken from houses. Our advice would be to ensure that keys are kept out of view of windows and that all doors are secured in your home.”