CAR crime hotspots in Pontypool and Cwmbran are being revealed by police, as they target car thieves.

Operation Maple - running alongside the Argus campaign to cut vehicle crime, Car Safe - is the Gwent Police crackdown on thefts from and of vehicles.

Research into where the local car crime hotspots are is part of the operation. Maindee, in Newport - which has the highest incidence of car crime in Gwent - has already been targeted.

The latest figures show that 65 per cent of car thefts in Torfaen and Monmouth-shire, between July 21 and August 11, happened in Pontypool and Cwmbran.

And, according to the figures released by Gwent Police, 55 per cent of thefts from cars in the area happened in the same places.

Particular areas of concern in Pontypool were New Inn, Griffithstown, Sebastopol, Trevethin, Blaenavon and the town centre.

Incidents occurred throughout Cwmbran, but Pontnewydd was highlighted as a particular problem area.

Gwent police are urging car owners to take precautions in order to reduce the risk of their vehicles being targeted.

Specific operations are being undertaken throughout Gwent in which known car crime offenders are being targeted.

In addition to this, crime prevention officers are employing a number of initiatives designed to minimise the risk.

The Operation is currently concentrating on 'B' Division, which takes in Torfaen and Monmouth-shire, but the police emphasise that it is just as important for communities to play their part.

Car owners throughout Gwent are reminded to take the following basic precautions:

* Do not leave any valuables in your car, even in the boot;

* never leave your keys in the ignition of an unattended car;

* if your vehicle is not fitted with an immobiliser or alarm, use a steering lock.

For further advice and information you can contact your local police station and ask to speak to the crime prevention officer.

Anyone with information regarding car crime is urged to contact their local police station or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.