A FAMILY has been targeted thieves for the second time in less than two years.

The Sheppard family’s van, which father Neil Sheppard uses for his tree surgery business Sub-Arb, was stolen off their driveway in Mottisfont during the night.

The white Ford Transit van was taken from their home in Spearywell between 11pm (January 27) and 1am (January 28).

The thief was spotted driving towards Salisbury around midday today (January 28). Mum Tracy Sheppard is asking anyone in the area to keep an eye out.

Daily Echo: The stolen vanThe stolen van (Image: Tracy Sheppard)

Mrs Sheppard said: “This is the second time we’ve been targeted in less than two years. It’s all very well these thieves thinking our insurance sorts it out but that doesn’t cover the loss of earnings whilst we wait for a payout and find a new truck.

"Last time it took us three months to find a decent new vehicle. In that time customers find other companies to hire in and we lose out on a weekly income. It leaves you anxious knowing these people have been on your property whilst you’ve been sat inside with family.”

The family previously had the same make and model of vehicle taken.

A spokesman for Hampshire police said: “If anyone has information they should call 101 quoting reference 44240039630.”