FOUR cars were broken into by thieves in Spondon during one night.

Criminals got in by smashing windows, stealing items including a laptop and cash.

The thefts happened in Dale Road and Ormskirk Rise between 8.30pm on Monday and 7.30am the next morning.

Police Community Support Officer Kate Bannister said drivers could help prevent thefts by not leaving valuables on show and by locking their vehicles.

"Simple steps – but it's surprising how many people don't take them," she said.