Brazen thieves stole car keys from the home of a pregnant woman before driving off in her vehicle.

Alice Clifford, 37, woke up on Tuesday morning to find her red Honda Jazz had vanished from outside her house on St Swithins Road in Bridport.

She always locks the door to her home, in which she lives with her five-year-old son, but at 27 weeks’ pregnant, fell asleep much earlier than usual on Monday night without having done so – something she said was a ‘complete one-off.’

The incident has left her worried and questioning how safe the area is.

“I’m always careful to lock the door,” said Alice. “This was one occasion I just happened to fall asleep early and they have come along and helped themselves to the car.

“It is worrying to think there are people going around door-to-door at night testing the doors and trying their luck. I’ve always thought of Bridport as quite safe but I’m worried now. Does everyone need to have cameras? Do we need to lock the door if we’re out in the garden with our children? We shouldn’t have to do that.”

Alice has praised the police response and hopes to raise awareness of what has happened. Residents and business owners are urged to be vigilant and ensure their properties are locked. 

“It has been seen a few times in the nearby area,” Alice said. “The police have asked anyone who sees it to get in touch with them.

“I have been left stressed about it and would really like to get my car back – I am hoping I do. If anyone does see it parked up, please contact police.”

A Dorset Police spokesman confirmed officers are investigating.

They said: “We have received a report of a vehicle theft reported to have taken place in St Swithins Road between 8pm on Monday and 9.30am on Tuesday.

“Enquiries into the incident are ongoing. No arrests have been made.”

Anyone who sees the vehicle should contact police.