police are set to mount extra patrols on Bromyard Downs and Bringsty Common this summer, amid concerns over car crime in the area.

Bromyard Neighbourhood Watch describes the areas along the A44 as "bomb alley" in its latest report, as there have been a number of recorded incidents of theft and vandalism.

Bromyard beat manager, PC John Bridges, appealed to motorists not to leave valuables in their cars, a warning likely to increase as the warmer months bring more visitors to the beauty spots.

He said: "The break-ins probably supply a source of ready cash for people with drug problems."

PC Bridges added that as the visitor season takes effect, officers are likely to increase their presence.

"Normally there's a big increase in car crime on the Downs and the Common in the spring and summer, when there are obviously quite a few more cars about.

"We are aware of the problems, and extra policing will be directed to those areas during the warmer months."

Recent incidents include:

n Thieves stole bank books and a make-up bag after smashing a window on a Mercedes on March 3 at the Downs;

n Parts stolen from a Transit van parked on Bringsty Common overnight on March 11 and 12;

n An ornate National Trust bench, worth £200, stolen from the Downs between February 14 and 23;

n A stolen Ford Escort found burnt out on Bringsty Common on April 1 and two days later a burnt-out Ford Transit, believed stolen, was found at Bromyard Downs.

PC Bridges said that if, as he believes, some incidents on the Downs and the Common are related to drugs, they are probably not being carried out by Bromyard people.

He said: "I think the offenders come from outside Bromyard."