An ingenious new crime-prevention idea has been launched in Gomersal to deter car thieves.

The "do not disturb" style sign will hang from the rear-view mirrors of cars to inform would-be thieves the vehicle is empty of valuables.

Featuring the police crest and the warning 'Thieves Beware - all items of value have been removed from this vehicle', it also includes a checklist of things a driver should do before locking and leaving a car.

The idea was the brainchild of Jack Transport, vice chairman of Dewsbury and District Crime Prevention Panel, and his friend Mike Smythe designed the sign.

"I saw something similar in another part of the country and thought it would be good to try it here. It is not really revolutionary but if it helps only a few people it will be worth it," he said.

The sign has been sponsored by Pauline White, owner of UB1 ladies dress shop in Quarry Road, Gomersal.

"I was only too pleased to get involved with this scheme," said Ms White, who will distribute the signs in her shop, which opened yesterday.

"Car crime affects everybody. I have spoken to people this week who have told me about leaving their cars for just an hour or two, only to return and find a window smashed or a wheel missing."

She added: "Unfortunately nobody cares any more and too many people are turning a blind eye. If there was more public and business participation we could maybe clamp down on this."

Pauline paid £250 to sponsor the first 5,000 signs, and is confident they will be a success. "These signs can only help in the fight against car crime," she said.

Councillor Margaret Bates (Con, Spen) is backing the idea. "I think the sign will be worth it if it prevents just one car being broken into or stolen," she said. "I think it will be effective just like the stickers on house windows warning burglars have already been."

The panel now hopes to produce another 5,000 signs to distribute in supermarkets, car parks and garages. Members are also considering holding an open day to offer crime prevention advice.