West Yorkshire Police issue warning about defrosting cars after thieves steal vehicles from driveways

Crime Prevention Officer Glenda Butts said the theft occurred on New Year's Eve, when vehicle was left on the driveway to defrost.

On returning to the driveway a few minutes later, the owner discovered that the car was gone.

West Yorkshire Police has repeatedly warned of an increasing number of reports of theft of vehicles in the winter months.

In a tweet this morning, the force said: "At this time of year we receive more reports of theft of vehicles and theft from vehicles.

"On a morning do not leave your car unattended with the ignition on to warm up. Wake up earlier and make time to de-ice your car."

How can I stop my car being targeted?

In the alert, officers warned residents to avoid leaving their vehicles unattended with the keys in the ignition.

They said: "Thieves are known to target residential areas on cold and frosty mornings looking for cars where the owner has started the engine to defrost the windscreen and then returned inside, leaving the car unattended."

People are also advised to keep their car a garage if they have access to one, and cover their windscreen the night before frost is forecast, shortening the amount of time it will take to defrost the car in the morning.

Some insurance policies become invalid if the car is stolen as a result of keys being left in the gnition, the force said.