A spate of van break-ins has prompted the local policing team to warn Rutland van owners to take safety precautions as thousands of pounds worth of tools are stolen.

A recent study conducted by RAC has highlighted that van related crime is increasing across the UK and the result is a hefty cost of over £61.9 million to businesses in lost tools and other items since 2016.

As such, local van owners should be extra vigilant when it comes to securing their vehicles and tools.

PC Robinson, of Rutland Police, said: "We have had a couple of vans being broken into overnight on 24 January into the early hours of 25 January. Thousands of pounds worth of tools stolen from these vans in Lonsdale Way and Westfield Avenue. Please, if you live in these areas, check any CCTV you may have and if you notice any suspicious activity please contact the Police."

The team also shared a list of reminders and security advice for van owners:

• Keep your electronic van key in a security pouch to prevent it being scanned by thieves to open and steal valuables
• Remove sat navs including the support cradle and cables. Wipe away any suction pad marks
• Make sure doors are locked, windows are closed and keys are removed when you leave the vehicle, even if its only for a moment
• On icy mornings, never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running
• Don't leave tools in vans overnight- stickers are available from Oakham police station
• Park your van very close to a wall or another van to restrict access
• Park in a well lit area that is visible to others, or covered by CCTV

If you have had similar happen to yourselves, please report through Rutland and Leicestershire's online reporting channels: Report a crime | Leicestershire Police (leics.police.uk).