NEGLIGENT motorists in Hampshire are providing rich pickings for eagle-eyed thieves.

Thefts from vehicles have become such a problem that a top New Forest police officer has warned that many motorists are creating gifts for thieves and are asking to be targeted.

During February, an average of one vehicle per day was broken into in the Hythe and Holbury areas with a variety of valuable items taken.

The Nursling and Rownhams areas have also seen a recent rise in vehicle thefts. Thieves have stolen satellite navigation systems, MP3 players, CD players, digital cameras and hand tools.

Superintendent Barry Talbot, deputy commander of Hampshire Constabulary's western operational command unit, is urging drivers to change their behaviour and never leave valuable items in an unattended car. He has warned that motorists who leave property in their vehicles are greatly increasing their chances of being the next target.

Supt Talbot said: "I cannot understand why people continue to give thieves easy pickings.

"In view of the sudden increase in thefts from vehicles, we appeal to all motorists - particularly those in the Waterside area - to stop and think when leaving their vehicles and to remove any valuable items from them."