A new scheme to raise awareness of thefts from vehicles and cars has been launched to drive down opportunistic thefts.

Enfield Borough Council has teamed up with the Metropolitan Police, IKEA, Halfords and other businesses to create Operation Spyder - to get the message to the public about how to prevent thefts from cars.

Chief Inspector Sharon Harding of Enfield Police said: “Most vehicle crime is opportunistic and therefore preventable. Many cases of theft from vehicles involve the theft of power tools, number plates or catalytic converters. By working with our communities and partners we hope to reduce the number of people who fall victim to vehicle crime.

“Police understand the inconvenience and expense of having your car or van broken into and we will continue to work with our partners and the community in order to keep these distressing crimes to a minimum.”

Giuliano Meroni, IKEA Tottenham store manager, said: "As one of the most recognised retailers in the area, we want to play an important part within the community of Tottenham, Edmonton and Enfield.

“We have been working hard to raise awareness of preventative measures against crime in our car park and we are pleased to now offer our full support to Operation Spyder, working alongside Enfield Council and the Metropolitan Police to make our community a safer place".

The operation will be running at vehicle crime hotspots across the borough to raise crime prevention awareness whilst targeting known offenders.