A handbag was stolen after a thief broke into a car parked at a beauty spot.

It happened at the National Trust's Langdon Hill car park, part of the Golden Cap estate, near Chideock.

Police said the window of the black Citroen C3 was smashed in order to gain entry to the vehicle sometime between 2pm-2.30pm on Saturday, January 22.

People visiting beauty spots are being warned to remove all valuables from their vehicles – to prevent them from becoming a victim of car crime.

Police say vehicles seen with valuables on display or windows left open are an open invitation for thieves. If a thief sees, or even thinks there is something of value in your car, they will try their luck.

The best advice is not to leave anything in your car. Leave it at home, or take it with you.

If you have information please contact Dorset Police on the non-emergency 101 number or email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk quoting the occurrence number 55220013585. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply. Always call 999 in an emergency when there is a risk of harm or a crime in progress.

You can also use the website to report several issues, from full crime reports to lost property; use the following link https://www.dorset.police.uk//do-it-online/