Drivers are warned over car thieves

POLICE are warning motorists to beware of car thieves when they are defrosting their vehicles.

Since Monday, 20 vehicles have been stolen across Greater Manchester — including two in Oldham — as motorists battle with freezing temperatures, ice and snow.

The vehicles were stolen when the drivers left them unattended with the keys in the ignition and engines running while defrosting them.

With low temperatures expected to continue over the next few days, police are urging motorists to ensure that they are not the next victims to be left out in the cold by simply staying with their vehicle while de-icing them.

Chief Insp Chris Gloster, of Greater Manchester Police’s Traffic Network Services, said: “People can be tempted to leave their car engine running on a frosty morning while they keep nice and warm inside their house. However, it only takes a few seconds for a thief to steal a car when the keys have been left in the ignition.

“It is not only high-powered vehicles that are targeted and so our advice to all drivers is to stay in their vehicle when defrosting and if at any time they need to leave the car, to make sure they lock it, remove any valuables and take the keys with them.

“Motorists should also remember that insurance companies may not pay out if vehicles are stolen after being left unattended with the keys in the ignition.”