THIEVES trying to steal two cars in Darwen prised open the doors but couldn't start the vehicles.

Police say they are linking an attempt to steal a car in Blackburn Road at 5pm on Saturday and 11.30am on Sunday with a similar attempt in Lamack Street at 1.45am on Monday.

In the first attempt, a Peugeot 106 was broken into and the driver's door forced away from the body.

The ignition was tampered with and the car was moved a short distance but not stolen.

In Lamack Street, a back door of a green Fiat Cinquecento was bent back, the vehicle entered and an attempt made to start it.

Again, the car was moved a short distance but this time a neighbour disturbed the thief who made off with the tax disc.