A FREE service to mark catalytic converters has been launched in Malvern in response to a wave of thefts across the region.

Malvern Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) and Malvern Hills District Council have combined with HiQ Tyres & Autocare on Pickersleigh Road, Malvern, to dish out free marking kits.

It kicked off on Monday (April 19) and lasts for a week with Councillor Sarah Rouse, leader of Malvern Hills District Council, keen to see residents take full advantage of the scheme.

“It is incredibly important to get your car marked,” said Cllr Rouse.

“You can see on social media what a problem this is in Malvern and in places like Welland and West Malvern.

“I think it is across the district, whoever is doing this seems to be moving from place to place so it is really important for as many people as possible to get the catalytic converters marked.

“It is a great initiative with cross-partnership working that will help to make life better for all vehicle owners.”

A police statement added: “This has been a crime that has affected residents of Malvern and so we are keen to participate and inform the community about the issue of it and how to safeguard against being a victim of crime.

“While the operation of planned activity runs for a period of one week, it is a patrol focus of the team so efforts to combat the thefts will be ongoing.

“The week consists of a number of planned activities, including social media campaigns to highlight the issue, targeted patrols throughout the night and day, use of stop and search powers and public engagement.

“As part of the public engagement, Malvern SNT have struck a partnership with HiQ who have been incredibly supportive of the initiative and the team are now able to offer members of public the opportunity to book an appointment direct with HiQ to have the catalytic converter marking kit applied free of charge.

“This will be done professionally by the mechanics at HiQ, officers and crime prevention officers will be available to discuss the process with customers and answer questions they may have.

“The Cat Guard marking system used provides a unique identity to the converter it is applied to, very much like a fingerprint. This can then be registered on the International Security Register.

“The application takes approximately twenty minutes so the owner of the vehicle can have it done while they wait.”

To book an appointment, email malvernservice@pjnicholls.com or call 01684 892255.