THIEVES stole a car after breaking into a house in Scarborough.

North Yorkshire Police said it was contacted by the home owner, who reported that at some time between 10.30pm on Thursday and 6.30am on Friday last week, thieves broke into the house, in Peasholm Drive, and stole a handbag and the car keys to a maroon Volkswagen Golf.

The thieves then took the car from the roadside in front of the house, the force added.

A spokesman for North Yorkshire Police said: "Detectives are conducting inquiries and are requesting the public’s assistance to help determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"In particular, they are appealing for any witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area of Peasholm Drive during these times, or anyone who may have seen the stolen vehicle as it was driven out of the Scarborough area."

Anyone who has any information should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101. Quote the reference number 12180027185.