THIEVES stole a lecturer's car and took a bag full of coursework before writing-off the vehicle.

The worksheets and papers were in the Mini Metro owned by Worcester College of Technology tutor Sue Williams, when it was stolen from outside her home Battenhall, last Thursday morning.

The assignments represented a term's effort for five Skills for Life students - some of whom have learning difficulties - who are working with the Deansway college to improve their basic skills of literacy and numeracy.

The vehicle was found the following day in Madresfield Road, Malvern, but thieves had made off with the coursework.

College principal Chris Morecroft said he was "very concerned" the loss would prove a setback to the students.

"It is very upsetting for Sue to have her car stolen and we are also very concerned that the loss of this work will upset and affect our students," he said.

"Any help that the public can give us will be much appreciated by both the college and the students, who have worked so hard."

The work was in folders in a cream, canvas bag with leather handles and blue and green embroidery. The bag was on the back seat of Ms Williams' green-coloured Metro.

She had taken the work home to mark it when the car was stolen, between 12.30am and 9am on Thursday, December 16.

The car was spotted by a friend near Madresfield Road, Malvern, later the same day and found abandoned in the same area, the following day.

The incident has been reported to the police and anyone with information should call 08457 444888, quoting 255S/171204, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Ms Williams can also be contacted at the college on 01905 725567.