CUMBRIA Police have warned drivers to ensure that their vehicle is locked. 

Even when leaving a vehicle temporarily it could leave it open to be stolen by an opportunistic thief. 

It is also crucial to ensure that the windows of your car or van are secured if you are going to be leaving it unattended. 

In a post on social media, Cumbria Police wrote: "Ensuring your vehicle is locked, even when filling up or parked on your drive, greatly reduces the possibility of it being targeted by an opportunist thief. 

"During the summer months make sure you haven’t left any windows or the sunroof open. Don't let thieves get an easy ride."

Any suspicious activity can be reported to 101 and if a member of the public sees a crime in action they are urged to call 999.