North Yorkshire Police has issued an urgent message for Toyota Hilux drivers in the Harrogate area.
It comes after police recovered a stolen Hilux from the Beckwithshaw area, which was fitted with a tracker and returned to its owner.
However two other Toyota Hilux vehicles have also been stolen from in the area recently, mirroring a growing trend in neighbouring police force areas and across the country.
Sergeant Mark Earnshaw, of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Task Force, said:
“It’s believed that Toyota Hilux 4x4s are now the most-targeted vehicles by criminals nationally, with a notable increase in ‘keyless’ thefts this year.
“That’s why it’s extremely important that anyone who owns a Hilux in York and North Yorkshire – particularly one that is used in a remote or rural area – takes extra steps to keep it safe now."
Sgt Earnshaw added:
“We’re increasing patrols and paying particular attention to locations where these vehicles are parked.
“But please help us, by locking your vehicle when it’s not in use, keeping the keys safe, parking in a well-lit area overlooked by houses or CCTV, and investing in in-car security locks and trackers.”
Find more information about preventing vehicle theft, and in particular how to protect yourself from ‘keyless theft’, here.

Leeds Bradford Airport strikes suspended as fresh pay talks planned
Irving Weaver appointed Life President of Harrogate Town AFC
Farm near Ripon scoops national farming award
WATCH: Magical woodland trail to support Masham primary school
Fountains Abbey prepares to host two-day Christmas market
New society aims to revive Harrogate's spa heritage
Inherited jewellery: where do you start?
Man found dead at property on Franklin Road in Harrogate
Killinghall Village Hall goes greener with £27,000 improvement project
Driver caught at 131mph ordered to pay over £1,500 at Harrogate court
Knaresborough toilets upgraded after recent vandalism
Knaresborough Scarecrow Trail to return this half term
Yorkshire residents invited to apply for BBC's The Traitors
North Yorkshire recycling centres could face closure
Harrogate Town Football Club announces new ownership
Free Halloween potion trail to launch in Harrogate this half term
Yorkshire Water issues reminder ahead of plastic wet wipe ban
Hundreds set to light up Harrogate's Moonlight Glow Walk
Harrogate charity helps children explore disability through art
Skipton Road closed in both directions after car overturns


