Police say their operation to cut car crime in the Eastbourne area has been a success.

Operation Hyena ran for two weeks in Lewes, Newhaven, Peacehaven, Seaford, Eastbourne and Hailsham.

Reported car crime in the area fell by 22 per cent.

Police figures show that an average of 77 car crimes are reported each week but from October 15 to October 26 the figure dropped by 17 a week.

Chief Inspector Grenville Wilson said: "The news that our high-profile approach to this campaign has resulted in 34 fewer victims of vehicle crime is excellent.

"We will continue to focus on vehicle-related crime as it is a Sussex Police priority."

Police stepped up their visibility in crime hot-spots.

They also waged an information campaign to encourage car owners to remove valuables from cars and to ensure vehicles were left secure.