POLICE are urging businesses in Yeovil and the surrounding area to be on their guard after a spate of crimes.

Industrial estates throughout the district have been hit by criminals particularly thieves targeting diesel from HGVs.

Police are now urging businesses to think about setting up an industry watch in a bid to protect their properties and vehicles.

Crime reduction officer, PC Steve Nickerson, said: "Industrial estates do seem to be a magnet for crime as they are so isolated.

"The industry watch would work similar to that of a Neighbourhood Watch allowing the industrial estates to pass information between themselves and the police."

Businesses are also being urged to look at their security and consider parking their vehicles to make it difficult to access the tank for example against a wall and consider leaving the tanks empty over night.

They are also being reminded that even during the day they can fall victims to crime and should therefore make sure their premises are secure at all times.

Anyone wanting crime reduction advice can go to the pages on the force website on the link below or contact their local crime reduction officer on 0845 4567000.

Anyone with information about crimes or who sees anything suspicious should contact the police on 0845 4567000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.