TRAFFORD police have launched a major 80-day campaign as they attempt to drive down car crime on the run up to Christmas.

The borough suffered a 28 per cent increase in theft from motor vehicle offences between September 2005 and August 2006, compared to the previous year.

This equates to approximately 616 more offences - with satellite navigation systems and Ford Focus CD players top of thieves hit list.

The initiative, that began on November 6 and runs until the end of January, will see officers using a number of tactics to target known offenders - including the use of new state of the art tracking equipment.

Motorists are also being encouraged to play their part while careless vehicle owners who leave valuables on display could receive a reminder letter from the DVLA.

Supt John Graves, head of Trafford's partnership and justice team, explained: "Through this campaign, we want to send out a clear message that there is no hiding place for car criminals and they will be caught and brought to justice.

"Over these 80 days, police officers, police community support officers and mounted patrols, along with staff from Trafford council, will be out in force in vehicle hotspots to reassure people and deter offenders.

"We will also be running a number of initiatives to encourage people to take simple steps, such as removing all of their valuables when leaving their vehicle unattended.

"By following these simple steps Trafford residents will greatly reduce the risk of becoming a victim and make it more difficult for the thieves."

He added that in the run up to Christmas officers will be working with retailers to ensure that their car parks are safe and secure for customers.

Crime reduction advisors will also be visiting public and private car parks to check if they are meeting security standards and identifying where improvements could be made.