GREATER Manchester Police (GMP) has launched a major new campaign aimed at driving down vehicle crime across the region.

The initiative is in response to more than 3,000 car thefts being recorded in the region each month, between April and June.

During this period more than 2,000 satellite navigation systems were stolen.

GMP's assistant chief constable Ian Seabridge explained: "Although, incidents of vehicle crime fell by 10.7 per cent between April 2005 and March 2006 over recent months vehicle crime has started to rise. This is down to the theft of items such as satellite navigation systems.

"By raising awareness through this new campaign, we aim to address this problem by encouraging people to take simple steps such as removing all of their valuables when leaving their vehicle unattended and therefore reducing the risk of becoming a victim and making it more difficult for the thieves."

As part of the campaign GMP is pledging to target and arrest more offenders, along with working with partner agencies to educate drivers about how to deter thieves.

In addition posters, postcards, keyrings and stickers - with a variety of crime prevention messages and practical tips - will be distributed to hotspot areas.