CAR thefts in West Yorkshire are climbing back to pre-pandemic levels with more than 3,100 cars stolen in the region last year.

Figures released through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request show that in 2022, a total of 3,142 cars were stolen.

The data, which covers the period from the start of 2018 to the end of 2022, shows car thefts are rising after a dip during the Covid pandemic.

In 2018, 3,976 cars were stolen and 54 per cent of those were recovered. Of 3,782 recorded crimes, 7.5 per cent resulted in a charge or summons.

A total of 3,699 cars were stolen in 2019 and the FOI shows that 55.3 per cent were recovered. Of 3,508 recorded crimes, 7.8 per cent resulted in a charge or summons.

According to the data, 2,676 vehicles were stolen in 2020 and 56 per cent were recovered. Of the 2,592 recorded crimes, 6.9 per cent led to a charge or summons.

In 2021, 2,565 cars were stolen with 50 per cent recovered and of the 2,500 recorded crimes, 6.2 per cent resulted in a charge or summons.

Last year, 50 per cent of the 3,142 cars stolen were recovered and of 3,066 recorded crimes, only four per cent resulted in a charge or summons.

The AA said in many cases, there’s very little police can do and a lack of CCTV footage or forensic evidence can mean cases are closed quickly.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said: “Vehicle theft is on the rise, but in many cases, there is very little police forces can do to recover the car.

“Reductions in officer numbers often mean that cases are closed quickly unless there is CCTV footage or forensic evidence.

“Having more cops in cars will help prevent thefts, drivers can take steps to prevent their car being stolen in the first place.

“Parking in a garage if you have one will keep vehicles out of sight, alternatively installing bollards on a driveway can help, or simply investing in anti-theft devices like a Disklok will make the miscreants think again.”

West Yorkshire Police said the impact of car theft can be traumatic, costly and inconvenient. The force urged members of the public to make sure their vehicles are always locked when leaving them unattended.

It also highlighted the importance of parking in well-lit areas overnight.

A spokesperson said: “Having your vehicle stolen can be traumatic, as well as costly and extremely inconvenient.

“We would advise car owners to make sure their vehicles are locked when leaving them unattended. Always check the handle when walking away from your vehicle to make sure.

“If you park your car on your driveway then make sure the area is well lit. The same applies when leaving your vehicle in a public place.

“Always turn the vehicle off when not in use and remove the keys from the ignition when leaving your vehicle for a short period of time.”

The Telegraph & Argus also contacted the CPS for comment but did not receive a response by the time of going to press.