BUILDERS, joiners, electricians are plumbers are being warned to be extra vigilant after thousands of pounds worth of tools disappeared in van raids.

Workmen across the area have been repeatedly hit by the theft of their tools for their trade from their vehicles overnight.

And now police, while accepting it is impossible for workers to empty their vans each night, they want them to make sure there is no easy access.

"I would try to remind workmen to be extra careful with their tools and make sure their vans are properly secured," says a police spokesman.

"They could try and park with their doors against a wall and also try to take any particularly valuable tools out at night.

"This sort of crime is very annoying because it costs people money."

Anyone with information should contact police on 01524-63333 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.