CHISELDON was targeted by vandals on the weekend as six cars were broken into in the space of two days.

Police were called to the Station Road and Butts Road area multiple times as many residents woke up to find items were missing from their vehicles.

Officers say the majority of the thefts were from vehicles that were left insecure parked outside driveways leading them to remind residents to make sure they lock their cars and homes to prevent further reports.

PC Sophia Best, community coordinator for the area, said: “Most vehicle crime is preventable.

“It can take as little as 10 seconds for a thief to steal something from your car. The best way to protect your belongings is to lock your car whenever you leave it, but please consider removing all items leaving nothing on show.

“If there is nothing on view then the thieves will almost certainly leave your car and move on.

“If you see anything suspicious then please dial 101 and report the matter to the police providing as much information as possible.”

Police officers reassured concerned residents that they were investigating the matter and now, they are asking for those affected to get in touch as much of the stolen items have been recovered.

Anyone wishing to trace their belongings can call 101, quoting 54170017804.

As a result of the thefts, four teenage boys, two 16-year-olds, a 13 and 14-year-old – all from Swindon - were arrested on suspicion of committing the offences. They have since been released on police bail pending further enquires.

Police were also called to two burglaries in the Liden area that occurred in the early hours of Saturday. It is not believed the two spates are linked.