RESIDENTS in Glasgow’s West End are being warned about a surge in car crime.

Police are investigating a number of incidents involving vehicles in the Kelvinbridge and North Woodside area, ranging from minor vandalism to the theft of a car.

Up to 15 cars are understood to have been damaged or broken into in the last month and officers have stepped up patrols.

Police admitted that car crime is “an issue” in the area and are studying CCTV footage and interviewing local businesses and residents.

They said a number of arrests had been made following incidents in the area, taking in Belmont Street, Doune Quadrant and Striven Gardens.

One resident said: “In the last month there has been a mass increase in car vandalism which started with about four or five cars on Belmont St.

“Since then I have personally have seen a car window smashed last week at the bottom of Doune Quadrant then on Saturday a mini at the top of Doune Quadrant, a Peugeot on Doune Gardens, and an Audi on Striven Gardens.

“On Sunday a Fiat on Doune Gardens and yesterday I saw another mini on Striven Gardens with its back window taped up and another pile of glass further down, all of which I reported to the police.

“ I estimate about 14-15 cars have been damaged in the last month alone."

Another resident said: “We have definitely noticed an increase in broken car windows the last few days and in front of houses."

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: “Police are investigating a number of crimes involving cars ranging from minor vandalism to the theft of a car - in the Kelvinbridge and North Woodside areas of Glasgow.

“Over the whole north west subdivision there has been a significant reduction in car crime, however, we accept that it is still an issue in this area which is busy for most of the day and night with shops, schools, homes and licenced premises.

“We have made a number of arrests and officers continue to investigate the reported crimes carrying out regular patrols, checking CCTV, speaking to residents and commercial premises in an effort to identify those responsible.

“”We would also advise motorists to make sure their car has been secured and no valuables are left in view.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Drumchapel Police via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.