Police are hoping the number will soon be up for thieves who have been targeting car registration plates.

Since the beginning of the year, an average of more than 10 number plates a month have been reported across Trent Valley police division which covers Burton, Tamworth, Lichfield, Burntwood and Uttoxeter.

In Burton, 19 vehicle number plates were stolen. In Tamworth the figure was 18; in Lichfield and Burntwood 18 vehicles were targeted and Uttoxeter saw nine incidents.

“We are not exactly sure what is behind the increase in these thefts but they do cause an enormous amount of worry and concern to the vehicle owners involved,” said Burton-based Inspector, Ashley Farrington.

“We know that some stolen registration plates are used in crime, but the number is relatively low and does not explain the underlying reasons behind the amount of plates reported stolen.”

One possible theory was that registration plates are being stolen as “trophies” for people to display in their homes or bedrooms.

“We want to put an end to these thefts and are appealing for help from drivers and members of the public,” said Inspector Farrington.

“We are seeking as much information as possible to enable us to piece together a clear picture of what is happening so we can take the appropriate action.

“If necessary, we will make arrests and take people to court because although stealing a number plate from a car may seem trivial, it can damage the vehicle and put owners through unnecessary expense,” he added.

He said vehicle owners could help themselves by refitting their number plates using super strong adhesive tabs which are available from hardware stores.

“Re-fitting number plates with strong adhesive tabs as well as the normal screws means that if someone tries to steal the plate, it will snap in half and the thief will probably give up,” he explained.

Anyone with information about car registration plate thefts can contact Inspector Farrington at Burton police station, telephone 0300 123 4455 or, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Calls to Crimestoppers re free from most landlines and callers do not have to give their name or any details which may identify them.

A reward, again paid anonymously, may be available for information leading to a conviction.

Source [Staffordshire Police]