CAB drivers are being warned not to leave cash unattended in their cars.

The reminder comes after thieves smashed the front offside window of a silver Citroen Estate minicab, and stole a black leather bumbag, containing £450, which had been left in the driver’s footwell.

The theft happened in Osborne Street, Colchester, between 12.10pm and 12.35pm on Tuesday.

A man was spotted acting suspiciously in the area at the time. He was wearing a black jacket, light-coloured trousers and a baseball cap. He was carrying a backpack.

Insp Paul Butcher said: “We are warning taxi drivers against leaving cash unattended in their cabs.

“This is the first offence of this type to have been committed in the town centre for a considerable time, and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the crime.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to contact officers at Colchester police station on 0300 3334444.