Police issue van thefts warning

Since the end of November, 11 vans have been taken from across the area and, in each instance, work type vans containing often expensive tools or building materials have been targeted.

The majority of the vans have either had the keys inside the van or the ignition has been left running.

The vans have been ­taken and then later abandoned with their contents removed.

On several occasions a white Ford Transit van has been seen in the area at the time of the crime and officers are asking van owners to take extra care to secure their vehicles and to keep expensive tools locked away.

Sergeant David Clark of Burnley Police said: “It is ­incredibly important for the owner of any vehicle to ensure it is always kept secure, particularly those who are delivering or working from their vans.

“Never leave the keys in the ignition or inside the vehicle – and be warned many insurance companies will not pay out for thefts of this ­nature.

“Anyone who sees anything suspicious should report it to us and if anyone has any information about those responsible for these thefts, please get in touch with us via 101.”

Residents are also reminded vehicles should always be kept secure and never left unattended when de-icing windscreens.

People with information can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.