Fuel lines cut in Stirling petrol thefts

Thieves in Stirling have resorted to cutting car fuel lines in a bid to steal tanks of petrol.

Two cars parked in Forthvale Court were found with their lines cut. Police have warned that puddles of fuel left under vehicles is a serious fire risk.

Petrol prices rose by 10% in the year to December 2010, and have risen 6p a litre in the past month.

Police in other areas of the UK have also reported a rise in fuel thefts - many from forecourts.

The first incident in Stirling occurred between 1500 GMT on Saturday and 1230 GMT on Sunday when a Volkswagen Polo had its fuel line cut.

A Renault Clio was targeted at a similar time.

A Central Scotland Police spokeswoman said: "We are appealing for anyone who may have seen anything suspicious around these times to come forward.

"There is a very obvious fire risk if puddles of fuel are lying near vehicles and we urge motorists to be vigilant. If they see anything suspicious they should call the police."