POLICE have issued a warning to van owners following a spike in thefts. 

Officers from Test Valley Police have reports a number of theft of tools from vans, or attempted thefts, in recent days. 

The thefts have occurred across the Test Valley district. 

Between December 2 and 3, tools were stolen from a van parked on Sarson Close, Andover.

Tools were stolen from a van parked on Crescent Road, North Baddesley, overnight between December 7 and 8.

A van was damaged after entry was attempted overnight between December 9 and 10, the vehicle was parked on Pembroke Close in Romsey.

A van was broken into on Alma Road in Romsey on December 10, nothing was stolen.

nspector Chris Taylor said: “These are hardworking trades people having their livelihood put at risk by criminals.

“Our local neighbourhood teams are conducting late night operations to combat this, and there will targeted patrols in hot-spot areas.

“As you know we can’t be everywhere all the time, so we want to remind you to make sure your vehicle is secure.

“We also welcome any information from the public that can help us combat these offences. If you know anyone who is selling second-hand tools and equipment please let us know by phoning 101, or reporting online via our website.”