Motorists urged to be vigilant

Two-thirds of consumers who use, or intend to use, their credit cards abroad are unaware of how much they are likely to be charged for the service.

Motorists have been urged to take car security seriously over the summer months in order to avoid unnecessary car insurance claims.

The A&A Group has warned that car crime rates soar during the summer, with drivers leaving windows wound down and doors unlocked, prioritising comfort and convenience over security.

Tony Allen, chief executive of the A&A Group, said: "People can sometimes forget the basics when the warm weather comes, leaving windows open and doors unlocked when they pop down the road to the pub, to a party or when they are relaxing at home.

"Opportunist thieves only need a moment to see that people are distracted and a further moment to take advantage of the situation or make off with the vehicle."

Mr Allen also pointed out that drivers are more tempted to drink alcohol during the summer, leading to lax security and a rise in drink driving, which can result in an increase in the cost of car insurance premiums.

According to recent figures, 64 per cent of all vehicle crime occurs in the vicinity of the victims home.