TWENTY vehicles have been stolen in Greater Manchester this week while they were left defrosting.

The vehicles were stolen when the drivers left them unattended, with the keys in the ignition and engines running.

With temperatures expected to continue to plunge over the next few days, police are urging motorists to stay with their vehicles while de-icing them.

Chief Insp Chris Gloster, of Greater Manchester Police’s Traffic Network Services, 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.”

He added: ”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.”