CARAVAN thefts totalling over £1 million have prompted police to issue internet-based advice to prevent owners becoming victims.

Between April last year and this month, 138 caravans worth a combined total of over £1.87 million have been stolen in the West Mercia Constabulary area, which includes Wyre Forest.

To combat the trend, the force has launched the Here Today ... Gone Tomorrow leaflet online. It offers advice on keeping caravans secure and making them less attractive to thieves.

Guidance on what to look for in buying a caravan is also included. The leaflet is at www.westmercia.pnn.police.uk.

Acting Det Sgt Colin Davies, who co-ordinates the force's efforts to tackle caravan crime, said: "While most caravans are fitted with some security measures, a few simple crime prevention measures, such as making sure valuables are not on display, windows and doors are locked and your caravan is chained or bolted to a secure point can make a difference.

"We know that this type of crime is usually well planned by groups of criminals and over half of all caravans are stolen during the night.

"Using the security methods highlighted in the Here Today ... Gone Tomorrow leaflet will help to deter potential thieves by making your caravan more secure."

The leaflet also highlights the Caravan Registration Identification Scheme - CRIS - which keeps records about each registered caravan and its owner in the UK.

That means potential buyers or dealers can check to see if is on the stolen or at risk register.

Acting Det Sgt Davies said: "The criminals who steal caravans are not interested in customer service or giving good deals.

"They just want to sell their stolen property on as quickly as possible."