A DELIVEROO driver left their car running with the keys in the ignition and it was stolen - with a police helicopter called in to try and track it down.

A thief drove off in the delivery driver's Nissan Note after it was left unattended on Montpelier Road, Brighton, at about 8.45pm yesterday evening.

Sussex Police said it was "at least the sixth vehicle stolen in such circumstances" since January 30.

Officers scoured the area, helped by the National Police Air Service helicopter, however there was no trace of the vehicle.

Inspector James Scott, from the Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “We appreciate people lead busy lives and it may seem like a good idea to leave your vehicle running while you make a quick stop or a delivery, for example.

“But this can present the chance for opportunist thieves to pounce. In turn, this leads to an increase in reports to police, who are required to investigate each individual incident.

“By taking a few simple measures, these incidents can be avoided.

“Remember to lock your vehicle when it’s unattended and keep the keys safe. Wherever possible, do not leave any items of value in your vehicle when it is unattended. And in particular, do not leave any items of value on display.

“Take precautions, remain vigilant, and if you witness any suspicious activity or a crime in action, report it to us.”

A force spokesman added: “You can find further advice on how to keep your vehicle safe and sound on our crime prevention page here: https://www.sussex.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/theft-of-a-vehicle/vehicle-attracting-thieves/”