AS many as four vehicles have been stolen from the Newton Abbot area.

Police in Newton Abbot responded to four separate reports of vehicles being stolen yesterday morning, Tuesday, January 17.

All the incidents happened when cars were left unattended with the engine running.

'It takes a criminal just seconds to steal your car when you leave it running, unattended, with the keys inside' a spokesperson for Newton Abbot Police said.

'Please give yourself a bit more time in a morning to prepare your vehicle safely before you set off, to help you to stay safe on the roads

'Dig out the scraper and de-icer so that you can de-frost your windows, or use a windscreen cover overnight.

'If you need to defrost your vehicle, ensure you stay with it and don't leave it unattended with the keys inside.

'Your insurance company may not pay out if your vehicle is stolen in this way' the spokesperson added.