Police are on the hunt for the man who stole a car which had a toddler inside.

The 17-month-year old girl, Maria Tudorica, was in the front passenger seat of the car on Sunday when it was taken by an unknown man in Newham.

The girl's father met with the suspect in Nine Acres Close, Newham, at around 4.35pm with a view to selling the car.

Police were called and immediately searched the area.

The black Audi A5 was found abandoned at 5.53pm in Hathway Crescent, but the toddler was not inside.

The child was found by a member of the public in the street in Ruskin Avenue at 7.49pm.

She was found with an additional item of clothing on which officers believe was given to her due to the cold by either the suspect or a member of the public.

Police are calling on anyone who saw the black Audi, registration number FY58 UAZ between the time it was stolen and found to contact the authorities.

The man who took the Audi is described as an Asian man of slim build, dressed in black clothing.

There have been no arrests but enquiries continue.

Anyone with information should contact police via 101 quoting reference 4480/6Jan or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.