A hospital has become a hotspot for crooks for stealing catalytic convertors from cars.

Southend Hospital is a target for criminals who have been removing the convertors from cars in recent weeks.

Essex Police is urging drivers to "remain vigilant" in car parks.

The force says officers have been on covert patrols in response to the spike in catalytic convertor thefts.

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A spokesman from Essex Police, said: "Throughout the week, officers from the Southend community policing team have been conducting covert patrols in a response to the recent thefts of several catalytic convertors from motor vehicles.

"Several key locations have been identified and includes Southend General Hospital.

"We are urging people to be extra vigilant in car park areas and to report any suspicious activity direct to the police using the 999 system."