Although the police have arrested two men following multiple vehicle thefts across Dorset, they are still keen to receive further information.

Since June there have been more than 50 thefts and related offences across the county.

Following enquiries by officers, two men, aged 22 and 29, from the Southampton area were arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicles and criminal damage. They have been released on police bail as detectives carry out further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Dave Horn, of Dorset County CID, said: “This series of reported thefts is believed to involve the targeting of high-value sports utility vehicles or four-wheel drive vehicles.

“We are continuing to investigate these matters and I would appeal to anyone with information to come forward. I would also like to repeat our plea to vehicle owners to consider the security in place for your vehicle and report any suspicious activity to us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220134740. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.