More than 600 car number plates were stolen across the Black Country in just six months, new figures have revealed today.

Sandwell has emerged as the hotspot area, with 289 swiped from a total of 625 around the region. A further 127 were stolen in Walsall, 122 in Dudley and 87 in Wolverhampton.

The plates, which can be used to disguise cars involved in crimes, were stolen between March and October this year. It can cost car owners around £30 for replacement plates.

The Association of British Drivers today said such thefts are rising across the country as motorists seek to avoid parking fines, speeding tickets and steal petrol from forecourts. It recommends using anti-tamper screws.

Spokesman Roger Lawson said: “It does seem to be a growing problem and we would advise anyone who has a common car to make sure their number plates are securely fixed. A thief then has to destroy the number plate to get it off so is a deterrent.

“There are a number of reasons it is happening.

“The cost of a simple parking fine is now so high so there is a strong financial incentive to stick on a stolen number plate.

“Then petrol theft where people can drive off and then police chase the wrong person”.

It emerged earlier this year a series of thefts had taken place across Walsall with 40 taken in March alone. Areas included near the town centre, Willenhall, Bloxwich, Darlaston and Aldridge.

There was also a crime spree in Wednesbury last month where 20 were stolen in a week.

Vehicles parked on Brunswick Park Road, Pound Road and Foley Street in the town were among those hit.

Officers have warned drivers to take measures where possible with anti-tamper screws available on the market.

By Craig Hughes