Two cars were stolen from Wells after burglars broke into a home and took the car keys.

The thefts, which occurred overnight, has left the local community on high alert and prompted a police investigation.

The vehicles, a 2019 Ford Ranger and a 2017 Suzuki Baleno, were reported missing from a property on Clements Close in the early hours of Sunday, February 4.

Authorities are now calling on the public to aid in their investigation by coming forward with any relevant information or dashcam footage that may help recover the stolen vehicles and bring the perpetrators to justice.

A police spokesperson said: "We were called shortly before 7.45am on Sunday 4 February to a report that car keys had been stolen from a property in Clements Close, Wells during the previous night. The keys were then used to steal a blue Ford Ranger and a black Suzuki Baleno."

The incident has raised concerns about vehicle security and the boldness of criminals targeting residential areas.

Police have attended the scene, and enquiries into the theft are ongoing as officers work to trace the stolen vehicles and identify those responsible.

Members of the community with any information, CCTV, or dashcam footage that could assist in the investigation are urged to contact the police. Information can be shared by calling 101 and quoting the reference number 5224029985.

Here are some crime prevention tips for car owners to help protect their vehicles from theft or burglary:

1. Always Lock Your Car: Even if you're stepping away for a moment, ensure your car is locked. Thieves often target unlocked vehicles for easy access.
2. Secure Your Keys: Keep your car keys in a safe place at home, away from doors and windows. Never leave spare keys in your vehicle.
3. Install an Alarm System: A visible, audible alarm system can deter thieves from targeting your vehicle. Consider systems that can notify you remotely if your car is disturbed.
4. Use Steering Wheel Locks: Physical anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks can make your vehicle a less attractive target for thieves.
5. Park in Well-Lit Areas: When possible, park your car in well-lit areas or secure garages. Visibility can deter potential thieves.
6. Remove Valuables: Do not leave valuables like electronics, wallets, or bags in plain view. If you must leave items in your car, lock them in the trunk.
7. Tint Windows: Consider tinting your car windows to prevent thieves from easily seeing inside your vehicle. Ensure that your window tint complies with local laws.
8. Install a Vehicle Tracker: A GPS tracker can help you locate your vehicle if it's stolen, increasing the chances of recovery.
9. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to suspicious behaviour or individuals loitering near parked cars. Trust your instincts and report any concerns to the police.
10. Maintain Your Vehicle: A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to break down and become an easy target for thieves.
11. Use Smart Key Fobs Wisely: If your car uses a smart key fob, store it in a signal-blocking pouch when not in use to prevent relay attacks.
12. Engrave Valuables: Marking valuables with your vehicle registration or a unique identifier can deter theft and help recover stolen items.
13. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common car theft methods and local crime trends. Knowledge can help you take appropriate preventative measures.
14. Use Dash Cams: A dash cam can record evidence if your car is vandalised or tampered with while parked.