Numerous people in Brentford have been posting complaints on social media about the theft of catalytic converters.

Across London the number of thefts increased by a staggering 455% in 2019 when the latest figures were compiled.

Complaints from local people have prompted Brentford MP Ruth Cadbury to write to Policing Minister Kit Malthouse to urge the government to take action over the increase in thefts of catalytic convertors locally and across the country.

In her letter Ms Cadbury said a number of local constituents had been affected and asked the government what plans it had to tackle this issue.

The MP said: ''A number of local residents have contacted me after they or their neighbours had catalytic converters stolen.

"I know how rightly angry many residents are about this, especially because of the high cost and inconvenience of getting them replaced.

"I've raised this issue with Hounslow councillors and with the policing team in West London.

"However it's clear that we need to see action from the Home Office and government ministers to tackle the surge in thefts we've seen."