A 34-year-old man from Caldicot has received a 26 week sentence following a spate of thefts from unattended vehicles in Monmouthshire.

James Howells was jailed on 4th October for breach of a suspended sentence and for breaking into three cars and taking almost £1,000 worth of goods.

He broke into a car in Undy sometime between 8pm on 1st May and 1pm, on 2nd May 2017 taking a dash cam worth approximately £80, and a coat worth approximately £50.

Sometime between 8pm on 30th June and 9:20pm on 1st July he stole boots worth approximately £145, a jacket worth approximately £300 and sunglasses worth approximately £260 from a vehicle in Portskewett.

The final offence occurred in Portskewett on 21st September, where he stole £50 cash from a wallet and a golf umbrella worth around £85.

Gwent Police has reminded the public to stay vigilant and to ensure they don’t leave anything valuable in their car.

A spokesperson said: “We’d like to take this opportunity to remind drivers to check their security and remain vigilant.

“Most vehicle crime is preventable. It can take as little as 10 seconds for a thief to steal something from your car.”

They provided a number of tips to help reduce the chance of theft including: “Removing everything from the car; don’t even leave a jacket where it can be seen.

“Closing the sunroof along with the windows when you leave.

“Not storing things in the boot; take them with you.

“Taking removable any expensive equipment including sat navs, unless they built in.

“Where you park can make a big difference to the safety of your car and your belongings. Look out for car parks.

“We would encourage anyone to report any suspicious behaviour by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.”