A campaign against car crime was announced by police in Worthing and Adur today.

During the latest outbreak of vandalism, youths climbed on to car roofs and smashed windows.

Sussex Police, which has launched the drive against theft from vehicles, made four arrests after reports of young people going on the rampage in Rowlands Road, in central Worthing, over the weekend.

A Peugeot 206 and a Nissan Sunny were damaged in the attack. Three of the four taken into custody were released and an 18-year-old from Sompting was granted police bail pending criminal charges.

Police in Worthing and Adur are urging people to be on their guard against criminals breaking into cars, following a series of thefts from vehicles in the past few weeks, mostly in the North Lancing, Sompting, East Worthing and Broadwater areas.

Officers are increasing patrols and forensic vehicle examiners are checking vehicles for fingerprints and DNA.

West Sussex County Council is being asked to improve street lighting in crime areas.

Inspector Ed De La Rue said: "We have seen a real increase in offences recently and we are advising people to be on the lookout.

"Try and make a note of descriptions or car registrations. Call us if you see anything suspicious, using the 999 number if appropriate."

Sergeant Tanya Jones said: "Make it difficult for the thieves. Don't leave property in your car. It isn't just high value items taken. A lot of the thefts are of items like CDs, car stereos and clothes.

"If you leave it they'll steal it, so don't take the chance".

Reducing vehicle crime is one of the Sussex Police priorities set by the Government.