Somerset's top stories direct to your inbox Join for free Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Reports have emerged suggesting that opportunistic thieves could be smashing the windows of cars abandoned in the snow in order to steal the valuables inside.

One motorist has also said his abandoned car may have been torched.

Benjamin Osborne, 30 and from Yeovil, had to abandon his vehicle on the A30 between Crewkerne and East Chinnock last night when the road became too treacherous to continue.

Upon his return to the vehicle, however, he was shocked to discover that it had been set on fire.

He said: “I noticed a number of smashed rear windows on abandoned cars. My one-year old-car was also set on fire, it appears maliciously.

(Image: Benjamin Osborne)

“I had only a few personal effects in my car in the boot, not of huge value, including some sleeping bags and camping items in case I was stranded.

“But because I had a parcel shelf it seems to have been targeted opportunistically.”

Benjamin thinks people have been going round attempting to steal any valuables left in abandoned vehicles.

He said: “There was a car with a smashed windscreen noticed outside Mosterton.

“Which makes me believe that there is opportunistic crime taking place.

“Like my car I was quite gutted but thankful no one was hurt.”

As a result of this he is now urging people to take out anything of worth from their car.

He said: “I just wanted to let you know that if people have to abandon their cars due to the weather to ensure they take all valuable items and all concealing boot shelves are removed where possible so anyone can see there is nothing in the car.”

Avon and Somerset Constabulary has been informed of the incident.

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

Benjamin also wants to thank the fire service who came out to help.

He said: “The local fire service in Crewkerne were brilliant and helpful but having seen other cars with damage I am concerned this may lead to something very valuable to someone being taken.”

Have you been affected? Let us know. Get in touch using james.wood@westgaz.co.uk , call 07870 505 906 or tweet me @JamesWood24