A nurse’s car was stolen from Angoods Lane, Chatteris, shortly before 8am today.

Police said the owner had been defrosting her grey Renault Clio at about 7.55am when she went inside her house for a few moments.

Her daughter, Joanne Adams, said: “My mum is a nurse and is still soldiering on to get to her patients out in the community today.”

A young man, described as white, about five foot, wearing a grey cap, red jacket and trousers was then seen to get in the car and drive off in the direction of Bridge Street.

Ms Adams added: “My mum is the nicest lady and if she had known this young man was in trouble she would have gone out of her way to help him.

“My mum even said if needed a lift somewhere she would have taken him.”

Police officers have conducted searches of the local area in order to locate the offender and the stolen vehicle.

A police spokesman said: “Although it may be an inconvenience when you’re rushing to leave in the mornings, we would like to remind members of the public not to leave vehicles unattended if they are unlocked, have the engine running or the keys left inside.

“This can often be a temptation for criminals so we would urge you to stay with your vehicle while de-icing in these cold temperatures.”

Anyone with information should contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.