DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a car was stolen when the owner left the keys in the ignition.

The BMW, registered L529 RWM, was stolen about 2.30pm on Tuesday from outside a house in Cemetery Road, Darwen.

Police said the thieves got into the car, which was parked heading towards Darwen town centre and then turned it round, heading along the A666 towards Bolton.

The owner stepped out into the road to stop the thieves when she realised what had happened and saw the driver cover his face as he went past.

A neighbour also tried to follow the car but could not keep up.

Detective Sergeant Neil Hunter from Darwen CID said: "This would appear to be another example of criminals travelling over from Bolton and surrounding areas into Darwen.

"There was a lot of commotion at the time and we would like anyone who saw anything to get in touch with us."

The driver of the stolen car is described as a white male in his early 20s and wearing a pale blue jumper.

If you know anything about the incident telephone 01254 353842.