Car thefts rise as temperature falls

Opportunistic car thieves have stolen 34 cars across Greater Manchester in the cold snaps since the start of this year.

The vehicles were stolen in the early hours when drivers left their keys in the ignition and their engines running while defrosting them for the school or work run.

As temperatures are set to plummet over the next few days, police are urging motorists to freeze out thieves and ensure that they are not the next victims to be caught out by simply staying with their vehicle while de-icing them on frosty mornings.

Superintendent Mark Granby 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.

”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.

“It is not only high-powered vehicles that are targeted. 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."