The images also show a man trying to break into three other cars on October 11 and Chester police are trying to find out who he is.

On that day at about 2pm the man used an implement to force between the windows and doorframes of one car parked on Canal Side.

The man also tried to break into three other cars parked on George Street.

He caused damage to the cars and smashed one window.

On George Street he stole a Vauxhall Astra van and drove it a short distance.

After getting out of the van he stole some tools from the back of it.

Cheshire Constabulary spokesman Rachel Hayes said: "He stole a Vauxhall Astra van and drove it a short distance prior to being caught on CCTV.

"It is not known if he was trying to steal cars or the equipment inside."

The man is described as white, late 30s and medium height.

He was wearing a grey T-shirt and blue jeans but might have been wearing different clothes earlier as an abandoned bag containing clothing was found in Brook Street.

Anyone who recognises the man or has any further information can contact DC Andy Collinson at the Chester Inner Neighbourhood Policing Unit on 0845 458 0000. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.