Police have borrowed from the Disney smash hit Frozen to pass on crime prevention tips to drivers.

Cleveland Police tweeted the warning after three drivers who left their cars unattended while they defrosted them were victims of thieves.

The message said: "When it's FROZEN, thieves will get their HANS on cars left unattended with their engines running. Don't be the one to LET IT GO."

Thieves struck in Eaglescliffe, Stockton and Billingham, all in Teesside, as one of the first thick frosts of the winter struck the area.

Chief Superintendent Glenn Gudgeon said: "We would urge people not to leave their vehicles unattended with the engines running, even just to pop into the house for a moment. It is all too easy for an opportunist thief to take advantage and it may mean that you can't make an insurance claim.

"With the arrival of the cold weather which is going to be with us over the next few months, please keep in mind that it only takes a couple of seconds for someone to steal your vehicle. Don't be left out in the cold by thieves."

The Frozen tweet was well-received by Tyne Tees TV presenter Kenny Toal, who wrote: "Best tweet of the day so far! You made me OLAF."

Online Editors