POLICE will be conducting a series of spot checks on an estate that has been plagued by a string of car crime.

Described as an "emerging trend", officers in Harwich have seen a sharp rise in the number of vehicle-related offences on the Bathside estate in the past week, with two or more cars being damaged or stolen every night.

Sergeant John Reynolds, of Harwich police, said: "We have had a spate recently of thefts from, and damage to, vehicles in the Stour Road area of the Bathside estate.

"We would like people to call us straight away if they've got any information, or if they've seen anyone loitering in this area.

"Some have been stolen and some have been damaged and things like radios have been stolen from inside the cars, and wing mirrors have been bent back.

"From experience, it looks likely to be the same people involved in the incidents."

Sergeant Reynolds said police would be doing spot checks at night, and are asking people to be extra vigilant.