AN OPPORTUNIST thief is striking lucky by targeting unlocked cars in Newton Abbot, police have revealed.

The 'watch out - there's a thief about' alert comes after a light-fingered stroller got away with hundreds of pounds of valuables after plundering six cars across the town in just 24 hours.

'All of them were insecure,' said PCSO Debbie McCaffery who is investigating the single-day spree.

The persistent pest's day of reckoning was Wednesday (jan 15) when his antics netted himself goods from vehicles in College Road, Quay Road, Torquay Road, Highweek Street and Knowles Hill Road.

His hauls included bank cards, wallets and mobile phones. In some cars he found nothing, but left evidence that searches had been made.

PCSO McCaffery urged motorists to make sure they left their cars locked and always kept valuables well out of view.

Anyone who might know the speculative serial chancer should ring police on 101 and quote crime JN/14/137. They can also take advantage of the confidential Crimestoppers facility on 0800 555111.