SOUTHAMPTON has one of the lowest rates of car theft in the UK according to a national motor survey.

The survey, conducted by Endsleigh Insurance, analysed more than five years of policy claims data from across the UK.

It covered tens of thousands of drivers and identified the most dangerous and the safest cities in the country in terms of motor theft and accident claims.

With a theft rate of 41.9 per cent less than the national average, Southampton ranked fourth safest behind Aberdeen, Gloucester and Plymouth. Theft hot spots were identified as Leeds, Bristol, Manchester and London.

Acting Det Insp Dave Morgan, head of Southampton's crime Team, said the police were constantly working to keep the figures down.

He said: "We are maximising the intelligence we receive from various sources and using it to target offenders. We are concentrating our resources in crime hot spots and working closely with our community partners.

"However, we would urge people not to leave laptop computers, mobile phones, handbags, shopping and other valuable items on display in their cars.

"We would also appeal for anyone who sees someone acting suspiciously near vehicles in public car parks or in private roads to call police immediately using the 999 system.

"We rely on information from the community and would urge members of the public to call us with any information."

Stuart Wartalski, at Endsleigh Insurance, said: "This analysis is absolutely fascinating.

"It will no doubt provide food for thought for motorists across the country as well as for local councils and other policy-makers.

"We have laid to rest some preconceived opinions about certain towns and cities and have also identified areas where much has been done to counter the threats of motor accidents and theft."

Any information about vehicle crime in Southampton should be given to the police investigation team at Hulse Road on 0845 045 4545 or via the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.