POLICE have released the image of a car thief who was brazen enough to steal a new car from a Thurrock dealership.

The theft happened near Lakeside when a man walked onto the forecourt of Lancaster Mercedes on Heron Way between 2.30pm on Sunday, August 24 and 3.10pm on Wednesday, August 27. He drove off in a silver Mercedes ML320 which had been parked and on display outside the main building.

Investigating Officer, Pc Rob Morgan, said: “This is quite staggering. This man is clearly a confident crook who simply ignored the CCTV cameras and drove off in the £35,000 car. As you may see, the image is very clear so he is easily recognisable.”

Anyone who knows the identity of this man is urged to contact investigating officers at Grays police station on 0300 333 4444.