THIEVES who broke into a car and stole personal belongings while a family went out on a walk around Wellington Monument at the weekend have been described as “scum”.

Now motorists are being advised to “think security” after it emerged that other vehicles parked in the monument area have been targeted by crooks.

The latest incident happened on Saturday (February 16) afternoon when Mo Wilkes and her family were enjoying some time together walking their pet dog.

But although Mo had taken the sensible action of not leaving any valuables on show in their parked Citroen Berlingo car, it did not deter the criminals.

When they returned to the car later that afternoon they found that the rear nearside window had been smashed and items had been stolen from inside.

“Glass was everywhere and although I’d hidden my handbag containing valuables under a dog blanket so it was out of sight, they’d taken it,” she told the Weekly News.

“It must have happened between 2pm and 4pm, so during daylight hours, and our car was parked alongside other parked cars.

“We couldn’t believe it had happened, but then someone told us that it had happened to somebody else earlier in the week.

“We’ve reported this to the police.”

Mo went on social media Facebook to let people know of what happened and to advise them to remember about the dangers of leaving valuables in your car – even if hidden away.

“Please be vigilant when walking at Wellington Monument,” she said. “We left our car locked and valuables hidden, but some scum still broke a window and took my handbag.

“Thankfully I had my phone and keys on me, but they got cash and personal stuff and bank cards which I’ve obviously cancelled.

“But I feel so violated and just don’t need this. It could have been worse I know, but they got my lovely Kipling handbag and purse, so only material stuff and cash.

“But I hope they get caught when they try this again on someone else – but don’t let it be you!”

Her message on Facebook has been shared by more than 100 people to help spread the message – especially with it being half-term holiday week when there might be more visitors to the monument area than normal.

Police have regularly reminded people that valuable property should be kept out of sight so you “don’t advertise your stuff to thieves.”

Although they have said that the best form of crime reduction is keep all belongings with you and never leave them unattended.

Anyone with information regarding the car break-ins at the Wellington Monument site can call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.