And officers say this is a crime that could, in many instances, be deterred if owners were more aware of the dangers.

East Riding's new Chief Inspector Richard Kirven (pictured) said: "It's known the majority of thefts from motor vehicles occur as a result of drivers leaving items on open display.

"This clearly presents the opportunity for would-be thieves.

"I would urge anybody who leaves a car unattended to please follow some simple pieces of advice."

Chief Insp Kirven recommends:

* while shopping, be very careful not to leave any valuable items on show

* park your car in well-populated, well-lit areas, preferably in a car park with good security

* lock all car windows and doors

* use a steering lock, if possible, and activate your car alarm; and

* take all satellite navigation systems with you, remove holders and clean away any circular marks.

Thieves target cars with these marks in the hope of finding SAT NAVs in glove compartments or the boot.

Among recent targets was a black Audi A4 car left unattended with the engine running in Market Place, Snaith, at 10.55pm on January 7. A man was seen getting into the car and driving the vehicle away.

A white Citroen Berlingo van, which was parked in Riverside, Rawcliffe, was broken into between January 17 and 18. Three drills were stolen from the back of the van.

And a passenger side window on a green Ford Focus car parked in George Street, Snaith, was smashed on January 17, with a satellite navigation system and a Nokia mobile phone taken from the glove compartment. A work bag taken was also stolen from the boot, but this was later found and returned to the owner.