'Always stay in vehicle' while defrosting

Drivers across the country are being warned to stay alert to thieves when defrosting their cars.

A spate of car thefts have taken place when motorists have left their cars with the keys in the ignition on a cold day in order to defrost the windscreen and headed back inside.

Police in a number of regions have put out warnings about the scam including Teeside, Cheshire and Fleetwood.

Officers have also said that many car insurance companies will not cover such theft, as the vehicles are generally left unlocked with doors open and keys in full view.

A spokeswoman from Cleveland police told the Evening Gazette: "Members of the public are urged not to do this."

Phil Buckley, a crime reduction adviser based in Widnes told This is Cheshire: "Don't leave your vehicle insecure and unoccupied. It will invalidate your insurance because of neglect.

"Always stay with your vehicle. Sit in it whilst it is defrosting."