POLICE have revealed thieves are targeting a particular brand of car in Leigh and Westcliff.

The Stolen Vehicle Intelligence Unit says it has seen a rise in the number of Ford Fiesta thefts in the areas, with models made between 2013 and 2017 a particular target.

A police spokesman said: “Our Stolen Vehicle Intelligence Unit have noted that we continue to see Ford Fiesta's being stolen from the south of Essex including in Leigh and Westcliff.

“The models vary, but the ages of the vehicles are between 2013 - 2017 models.

“Please remain vigilant and where possible add extra security features.”

Other areas which have seen Ford Fiesta thefts in south Essex include Basildon, Canvey and Hockley.

It comes a week after the stolen vehicle intelligence team also warned about a rise of Range Rover thefts in the Southend area.

Emma Tye, 37, is among the victims of the theft and revealed to the Echo earlier this week she had her Range Rover snatched from her driveway while she played in the garden with her children.

The car was locked at the time, with the keys indoors, so it is believed signals may have been used to enter the vehicle.

You can see the latest safety advice to protect your car from thieves on the Essex Police website.