POLICE are urging car dealers in Darlington to be vigilant after linking two thefts of cars from garage forecourts.

The latest theft took place at SG Petch, in McMullen Road, between 5pm and 5.30pm on Thursday.

It followed the theft a day earlier at Reg Vardy's showroom.

Both incidents involved men asking to take cars out for a test drive and not returning with the vehicles.

The theft at SG Petch happened after a man asked for further information on the Hyundai Lantra he was about to take out for a test spin.

The suspect left while the salesman turned his back momentarily to gather some brochures.

Steve Petch, managing director, said: "I am disappointed, and quite annoyed.

"The man obviously has a shopping list for this area, and took his chance here. I am surprised this has happened as we are very conscious that salesmen should attend on test drives, and customers are never left alone."

The stolen car was blue and had the registration number P401 KEF.

The thief is described as 25 to 30, 5ft 10in, with brown hair.

He was smartly dressed, wearing black trousers, a white shirt, black tie, and black jacket. He also spoke with a local accent.

A spokesman for Darlington police said: "We are warning garages in the area to be vigilant, as we believe that the two incidents may be linked."

Police can be contacted on (01325) 467681 or anyone with information can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.