THIEVES stole a £17,000 car after hoodwinking staff at a Northwich gym.

Police say men asked for a tour of the facilities at La Fitness on Leicester Street at about 2.30pm on Friday, on the pretence of considering a membership.

When left to look around the men’s changing rooms, they removed a padlock and broke into a locker, stealing car keys, cash and bank cards.

The white Seat Leon, registration number YF57 AUM, has not yet been recovered.

Police will view CCTV footage handed over by the gym’s management. One of the criminals is white, of slim build and about 5ft 8ins. He was carrying a rucksack.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0845 4580000 or CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.