TALKING solar-powered information systems could be installed in Cheddar car parks to warn people against vehicle crime. Police want to install the systems after officers identified over 1,000 cars in just three months which could potentially fall victim

TALKING solar-powered information systems could be installed in Cheddar car parks to warn people against vehicle crime.Police want to install the systems after officers identified over 1,000 cars in just three months which could potentially fall victim to theft. Sergeant Pete Yensen said: "People sometimes leave sat-nav brackets on the dashboard and put the system in the glove box, but thieves know that no-one wants to carry something that heavy around, so the glove box is the first place they check." Police also found valuables such as laptops and bags left on display and are concerned that tourists may be too relaxed about the safety of their possessions when they are on holiday.The information system would be located next to the ticket machine and would verbally warn tourists to make sure their cars are secure. Sgt Yensen added: "The systems are available now, but we need to see where we can put them to get enough sunlight and where they will not be vandalised."Police officers are now working with wardens from Cheddar Gorge to come up with effective crime prevention measures in preparation for the tourism season, and hope to get approval for the machines next year.