A crime-busting initiative that helped to cut numberplate thefts in West Yorkshire last year is being relaunched for the New Year.

As part of a wider campaign against car crime, Neighbourhood Policing Team officers from Bradford North are running two action days where drivers will be able to get the standard numberplate screws on their cars replaced with special security screws that reduce the chances of their plates being stolen.

Last year’s campaign made a major impact on the level of numberplate thefts in the division. There were 165 such thefts throughout 2005 but this was cut to 50 in 2006 when the initiative was first run.

Officers will be offering the free replacement service in the car park of the Morrisons store at Five Lane Ends, Idle, Bradford, between 10am and 3pm on Thursday, January 4, and in the car park of the Morrisons store in Thornton Road, Girlington, Bradford, between 10am and 3pm on Thursday, January 11.

The procedure only takes about five minutes to complete and is free of charge. Visitors will also be able to get information and advice on how to steer clear of other types of car crime, such as Hanoi burglaries where thieves burgle houses to steal the keys to cars parked outside.

Sergeant Carlton Lovett, of Bradford North Community Safety Unit, said: “We would encourage anyone who has not had their numberplate screws changed to take advantage of this opportunity. It is a very quick and simple process, which will help to protect people against the inconvenience and cost that having their numberplates stolen can bring.”