STOCKBRIDGE police have warned visitors to be on their guard against gangs who frequent beauty spots to break into parked vehicles.

Thieves and vandals slashed the tyre of a car parked at Stockbridge Down, and stole a handbag, with a total value of £200, early on Monday evening.

In another raid on the same evening a car, at Danebury hill fort, was broken into and a second handbag stolen.

"It only takes them 14 seconds to break into a car and steal articles. We do patrol but unfortunately we cannot be on the spot all the time," a police spokeman warned.

The police can supply a list of hints on how to protect property. Call in to Stockbridge station between 9am to 10am and 5pm to 7pm for a copy.