Vehicle theft has dropped dramatically in North Warwickshire during the coronavirus pandemic, according to new figures.

The year began with reported thefts of, and from, vehicles in the constituency hitting 96 in January and 97 in February - although these figures were lower than the 116 in December according to UK CrimeStats, using latest data gathered by the Economic Policy Centre.

But these almost halved during lockdown to 53 in March and dropped further in April (49) and again in May (46). The figure for June was 48 and July 47.

Nationally, there were 38,800 reported vehicle thefts in January compared to 21,560 in April and 21,550 in May.

July 2020 saw the lowest ever monthly number of thefts of, and from, vehicles since the recording of data started in December 2010.

Greg Wilson, founder of car insurance comparison site Quotezone.co.uk, said: "It's not surprising that the rate of vehicle crime fell in April and May, given lockdown measures and the reduced number of cars on the road.

"However, the scale of the fall was incredibly dramatic, perhaps suggesting that some of that community spirit we witnessed with the 'clap for carers' initiative has helped foster a sense of community-mindedness more broadly.

"Whatever the cause let's hope this particular change is here to stay."

Mr Wilson added that victims of car should act quickly - call the police and insurers, don't touch anything at the scene and take photos if you can.