A THIEF drove off in a BMW sports car after its owner left the engine running while she removed a traffic cone from the road.

The crime happened on a car park on Cowley Hill Lane at shortly before 2pm on Thursday, December 12.

The car involved is a two-door silver BMW 118 sport convertible, registration MV11 TTU. The 47-year-old had left it for just a few moments when the crook pounced.

The crook is described as white, in his 30s, and is believed to have been wearing dark clothing and a peak cap.

It's thought he drove off in the direction of Bishop Road.

Detective Constable Rachael Clayton, St Helens CID, said: "This woman left her car unattended with the engine running for a matter of just seconds but it was enough time for a thief to take it.

"We need to trace both the offender and the car and I would appeal to anyone who may have seen the vehicle, or has any other information which could help detectives with their enquiries, to get in touch with us.

"I'd also like to take this opportunity to remind people never to leave their vehicle unattended with the engine running, no matter how short the period of time.

"This advice is particularly relevant at this time of year, when some people still leave their cars with the engine running and the heater on to defrost the vehicle."

Anyone with information is asked to call St Helens CID on 0151 777 6829 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.