A CAR was stolen while its owner was de-icing the vehicle in cold weather.

The grey Peugeot 2008 was stolen from outside a property in Levenside, Stokesley, while the engine was left running to remove ice from the windscreen and windows.

The theft comes after two cars were stolen from Norton, near Malton, on February 15 while the owners left their vehicles unattended as they defrosted them.

The cars were later recovered. The first car, a Kia Ceed, was found abandoned in the Norton area, while the second vehicle, a Volvo, was recovered following a police pursuit in Darlington, which resulted in the arrest of a 20-year-old man from the Kirkbymoorside area.

Police are urging vehicle owners to ensure their vehicles are defrosted properly and have good all-round visibility, but to remain vigilant and stay with their vehicle whilst defrosting it, or use a scraper and de-icer.

Inquiries are ongoing to locate the Peugeot stolen from Stokesley. Anyone with information is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101.