UPDATED 16:41*
OWNERS of classic Minis on the Isle of Wight have been warned to stay vigilant after a recent spate of fuel thefts.
There have been reports of several incidents where fuel has been taken from the fuel tanks of older style Minis.
Newport Safer Neighbourhoods team issued a warning on the social media site Twitter this afternoon (Tuesday).
*A police spokesman said there had been at least five incidents reported in Newport and Carisbrooke since September 28 and fuel worth between £5 and £15 had been taken on each occasion.
"If anyone has these types of vehicles parked on their driveway or by their homes, please try parking the vehicle with the fuel cap closest to a wall so it is difficult to get access to it.
"Try not to leave much fuel in the vehicle and park vehicle near to street lamps," said the spokesman.
Anyone with information can contact Newport Safer Neighbourhoods team by phoning 101 or emailing newport.snt@hampshire.pnn.police.uk.
Mini-com users can phone 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity by phoning 0800 555 111.
Reporter: jamiew@iwcpmail.co.uk