Beachgoers urged to keep valuables safe after Swansea car thefts

Credit: PA Images

Beachgoers are being urged to keep their valuables safe after swimmers and surfers were targeted by thieves on beaches in Swansea.

Police say beach users who hide their car keys after parking up the vehicle are often being watched by criminals who then take action once people are in the sea.

Because these cars have been left insecure, victims of the crime cannot then claim insurance.

Keys hidden in wheel arches is one example.

Safer Swansea Partnership have now launched a scheme to help keep surfers' belongings more secure.

Those visiting the beach are being encouraged to buy waterproof security pouches to safely store keys and personal belongings.

Swimmers making the most of the waterproof pouches.

Local shops in Swansea are supporting the scheme by selling the pouches at cost price.

Shop owner Leah Morgan says she wants to encourage "enjoyable safe usage of our beaches".

Swansea Council Cabinet Member for Better Communities, Mary Sherwood, added that “the pouches are a simple, straightforward solution".

"No-one wants to come back at the end of the day to an empty space where their vehicle should have been and a waterproof pouch that is close-by whatever the surf conditions offers people peace of mind as well as security."