THIEVES gave a new meaning to the phrase 'cat burglars' as they broke into a canal boat using the cat flap.

Police said the thieves managed to use the cat flap to reach an arm through and unlock the door.

They got into the canal boat as it was moored along the towpath on Hythe Bridge Street, Oxford.

It happened on Saturday, November 1, between 1.45pm and 5.45pm.

Thames Valley Police said it is appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to help with the investigation.

To contact police about the theft call 101 referencing 43180367840