WARNINGS have been issued to drivers who leave their vehicles defrosting with the engine running after two cars were stolen in Redditch and Alvechurch.

A Black Volvo V50, with a registration plate of AV61XCW, was stolen from the drive of a property on Grange Lane in Alvechurch as the owner left it unattended while defrosting.

The incident, which occurred between 7.20am and 7.30am on Wednesday, November 30, is one of a series of similar incidents across the region, with a further car stolen in Redditch

Alvechurch and Wythall Safer Neighbourhood Team warned residents on Twitter not to leave their vehicles unattended while they are defrosting.

Detective Constable Fiona Paterson from West Mercia Police added: "Unfortunately there are opportunist thieves who will intentionally visit residential areas on cold frosty mornings to look out for cars which have been left with the engine running.

"During the current cold spell, it's important that motorists leave extra time to go outside and de-ice their windows themselves, rather than leaving the car unlocked and the engine running.

"Whilst this may feel like an inconvenience, it only takes a matter of seconds for a vehicle thief to jump in and drive off. By leaving your car unattended, you may end up losing more than just the ice on your windows."

Anyone with information on the incident on Grange Lane is urged to call West Mercia Police on 101, quoting incident reference number 0062s of November 30.