Trafford motorists are being warned not to leave their cars unattended while they are defrosting.

Greater Manchester Police is warning the public to be aware of car thieves when defrosting their cars, as part of their campaign to drive down vehicle crime.

As the Met Office continues to predict more cold weather across the region for the next few days, police are urging people to always ensure that their cars are fully locked and secured when unattended.

A GMP spokesman said: "It can be tempting to leave the engine running on a frosty morning while you do other things. The simple way to ensure you car is not stolen in this time is to stay with it.

"Thieves look for vulnerable cars to steal so the best advice we can offer is to stay in your car when defrosting.

"If at any time you need to leave the car make sure you lock it, remove any valuables and take the keys with you. It only takes a few seconds to steal a car with keys in the ignition."

Meanwhile Trafford police say they will attempt to wipe out' vehicle crime by distributing free window scrapers to motorists with a preventative reminder message printed on them, later this month.

Pc Tony Crompton, Trafford's crime reduction advisor, explained: "These scrapers are a simple but hopefully effective way of reminding Trafford motorists that thieves are sometimes on the prowl.

"They will be distributed on car parks in the near future so look out for them. Please, never leave your car running when you are not in it, remove the opportunity and you remove the crime."

For further information contact the crime reduction office 0161 856 7546.