Don’t leave your cars to defrost unattended

We’re reminding people not to leave their vehicles unattended while defrosting them following a theft in Stoke-on-Trent today (Friday 3 January).

Just after 7am, a Vauxhall Zafira was stolen on Sandcrest Place, Meir, after it had been left running to defrost. The owner left the keys in the vehicle and the offender drove the car away.

Our enquiries are ongoing.

Between 6am and 10am, when most people are defrosting their vehicles ahead of going to work or doing their first journey of the day, thieves are looking for easy opportunities and have been targeting vehicles left unattended.

Inspector Rebecca Price, Stoke South deputy commander, said: “Please don’t make it easy for opportunists during this latest cold weather snap, which is expected to continue into next week.

“We see an increase in theft of motor vehicles when the bad weather arrives due to people leaving vehicles unattended to defrost the windscreens.

“Make sure you stay with your vehicle at all times when it’s defrosting, or running. Also, keep your keys with you at all times.”

To report a theft, call 101 or use Live Chat on our website.

Always call 999 in an emergency.