POLICE say they are stepping up patrols in the town in response to an increase in the number of thefts of tools from cars and vans.

A further three vehicles have been targeted since last Wednesday (January 17) and officers have reiterated warnings to people to remove tools from vehicles when possible.

In West Malvern last Wednesday night, a Makita cordless drill worth £280, a £40 toolbox and other tools valued at £300 were taken from a van.

On Sunday night, thieves broke into a van in Pickersleigh Road, stealing a Makita cordless drill worth £1,000, two Panasonic drills worth £350 each and a Makita jigsaw. On the same night, a Dyson vacuum cleaner was taken from a car in Pickersleigh Road.

"For tradesmen such crime is more than inconvenient," said Sgt Richard Robson, of Malvern Police. "We are aware of the problem and have increased patrols around Malvern.

"It can be difficult to protect vehicles from the determined thief but more often than not car crime is opportunist. So, we would urge tradesmen, if at all possible, to remove work tools from their vans and leave their vehicles securely locked in well lit areas.

"I would also ask anyone approached to buy hand tools at irresistible prices to consider their origins."

Tool thefts have also been reported in recent weeks in Bosbury Road, Churchill Drive, Oakfield Road, Lower Chase Road, Pickersleigh Road, Skyrrold Road, Upper Chase Road, Hornyold Road, Cowleigh Road, Frederick Road and Lansdowne Road.

Sgt Robson urged anyone with information about the thefts to contact him on 01905 723888 or ring the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.