Police are on the hunt for a thief who stole an elderly woman's car in Newcastle city centre.
The 84-year-old victim parked her blue Mazda 2 in a parking space opposite the Mile Castle Pub on Wednesday before visiting her bank but when she returned at 4pm the car had gone.
She immediately contacted police who launched an investigation and found it had been stolen just before 1.40pm before it was found three hours later in Gateshead.
Officers have now released CCTV footage showing a man who could assist the investigation and are calling on the public to help track him down.
Neighbourhood Inspector Karen Madge said: “We are delighted to be able to return the vehicle to the victim and she is delighted it has been found.
“She was very distressed by what had happened so it is pleasing that we have achieved a positive result - but now we need to identify the person responsible.
“We have carried out some fast-time enquiries and that has resulted in us identifying a man who we need to speak to about the theft.
“He was in the area of Westgate Road when the car was stolen and so identifying and locating him could be a key part of our case.
“If you recognise him, or if you saw the theft take place, then please get in touch with police as it will be a huge help to our investigation.”
The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to contact police online at the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101 quoting log 647 of August 26.
You can also email central.intelligence@northumbria.pnn.police.uk or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
