POLICE have urged motorists to take extra care after a car was stolen from outside its owner’s home.

The owner went back into his house, in Belmont, near Durham, and left his car running so it would warm up on a cold morning.

When he came back outside, he saw it being driven off down the street.

The incident happened at about 8am on Friday, January 21.

Paul Anderson, Neighbourhood Inspector for Durham City, said: "This is an open invitation to any criminal walking past. Please do not make it easy for them.

"Last year we had a spate of these offences and I do not want a repeat this year.

"Please do not become a victim of crime. Do not leave your car unattended.

"It may well be your insurance does not cover in such circumstances, leaving you out of pocket as well as without a car."

To contact Durham Police, call 0345-60-60-365.