Quaystone Projects in Southampton ‘reeling’ after £50,000 equipment raid

A man wielding a crowbar broke through the front door of Quaystone Projects.

After making a phone call a helper driving a van arrived at the site off Millbrook Road West soon after on Monday night.

Company director, Dan James says he was left feeling devastated after they made off with a Ford Transit tipper truck.

Using a ramp, the two are reported to have loaded up their own van with a generator, spraying machinery and a haul of hand tools.

Making off with “between £40,000 and £50,000” of equipment, they also damaged the main entrance and a set of roller shutter doors at the firm’s unit.

The business is now “crippled and reeling”.

Dan, 39, said: “They forced entry through the door. They ripped open drawers and found the van keys.

“We have taken a massive hit and I am feeling devastated.

Director, Dan James at the damaged entrance of Quaystone Projects

The father of three who works alongside his 17-year-old son Ethan told how he couldn't think straight after the break in.

He added: “I can’t believe it. I would love to get the van and equipment back but it’s highly unlikely.”

The company which employs around six people has been at its current site for just three months.

Dan says building projects have been impacted and the company now has to find money for new equipment.

His brother-in-law, Ashley Thistle a manager at Quaystone said: “We are gutted. My blood was boiling. We are a small company and have been building up. I am worried it will be a regular thing. It’s crippled us. It’s just not fair.”

Ashley now wants to warn other businesses and raise awareness of targetted break ins in Southampton.

The raiders are believed to have been driving a Vauxhall Vivaro on the night.

Police are urging anyone with any information to phone 101 with the reference 44200347676.