Thief nicked car part

Police are investigating after crooks stole the catalytic converter from a car parked outside a furniture store.

The car – belonging to the director of an independent furniture company in Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Hillington – was targeted overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday.

It is understood the motor was parked near a rear perimeter fence around 7pm on Tuesday and failed to start the following morning.

Officers probing the incident have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Inspector Allan O’Hare from Johnstone, Renfrew and the villages community policing team, said: “These types of thefts are rare, but clearly cause massive inconvenience and disruption to vehicle owners.

“If you were in the area of Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Hillington, overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday and witnessed anything suspicious then we would like to hear from you.

“We will be checking CCTV from the area.”

He added: “I would also urge members of the public to report any suspicious activity near motor vehicles, for example if you see someone working underneath a car in a public place.”

Anecdotal evidence suggests catalytic converter thefts are on the rise again - with a recent spate of thefts from hospital car parks targeting NHS staff.

Last year, the Express reported how a number of workers at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, in Paisley, found their cars had been tampered with and the converter removed.

There is a legitimate market for second- hand catalytic converters, which turn the noxious gases in a car’s exhaust system into less harmful substances.

But the thieves want them for the scrap value of the three precious metals found inside.

Prices have rocketed for rhodium, platinum and palladium, with palladium selling more per gram than gold last year.

Call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.