Campaign to combat vehicle crime

THE Police and Crime Commissioner for the Thames Valley has launched a vehicle crime and tool theft awareness campaign.

Matthew Barber says it aims to support ongoing police activity and inform residents about how to keep vehicles and tools safe from criminals by providing advice and guidance.

In Henley town centre and surrounding areas, there were 56 recorded thefts from vehicles and 27 recorded thefts of a vehicle from May 1, 2025, to April 30 this year.

In the last 12 months, to the end of August this year, there have been 3,496 vehicle thefts and 6,666 thefts from vehicles in the Thames Valley.

Mr Barber said: “Vehicle crime has a significant impact on victims and on feelings of safety in our communities, which undermines public confidence.

“Vehicle crime is currently down in the Thames Valley compared to last year. However, I want this trend to continue, which is why it remains a priority in my police and crime plan.

“The campaign will consist of clear car advice posters and literature with more detailed advice and guidance, which will be distributed through our partners and stakeholders.

“In addition, we will host a number of tool-marking events providing tradespeople an opportunity to speak to industry experts and have their tools protectively marked, improving the chances of them being returned in the event that they are stolen.”

Mr Barber will publish a vehicle crime strategy in the coming months.