POLICE have been patrolling a beauty spot near Winchester after reports of attempted theft from a parked car.

The Winchester Rural Neighbourhood Team was told about suspicious activity at Crab Wood Car Park at Farley Mount near Sparsholt.

A member of the public reported that a man was disturbed trying to break into a car earlier this week.

The police checked out the area, speaking to campers and checked several vehicles on police information systems.

A police spokesman said: "We urge the public to be extra vigilant during the hot weather spell as more people use the rural car parks. Please remember to take all valuables out of your car when going on walks."