Owners of a particular model of 4x4 are being urged to increase the security of their vehicles.

It comes after North Yorkshire Police officers recovered a Toyota Hilux stolen from the Beckwithshaw area of Harrogate. The vehicle, which was fitted with a tracker, is being returned to its owner.

However, two other Toyota Hilux vehicles have also been stolen from the Harrogate area recently, mirroring a growing trend in neighbouring police force areas, and across the country.

Sergeant Mark Earnshaw, of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Task Force, said: “It’s believed that Toyota Hilux 4x4s are now the most-targeted vehicles by criminals nationally, with a notable increase in ‘keyless’ thefts this year.

(Image: North Yorkshire Police)

“That’s why it’s extremely important that anyone who owns a Hilux in York and North Yorkshire – particularly one that is used in a remote or rural area – takes extra steps to keep it safe now.

“We’re increasing patrols and paying particular attention to locations where these vehicles are parked. But please help us, by locking your vehicle when it’s not in use, keeping the keys safe, parking in a well-lit area overlooked by houses or CCTV, and investing in in-car security locks and trackers.

“You can also visit our website for more information about preventing vehicle theft, and in particular how to protect yourself from ‘keyless theft’.”

See https://www.northyorkshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/preventing-car-vehicle-theft/ for information.