Van owners are being warned to remove valuables from their vehicles overnight following a spate of thefts.

Three vans were broken into and power tools stolen from inside between Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning.

This was in Greatstone, Brenzett and New Romney.

A police spokesman said: “The offences are being investigated and officers are working to identify and arrest those involved.

“While inquiries continue, tradespeople in the area are being urged to be vigilant to protect their vehicles and tools.”

Van owners are advised to:

– Empty their vehicles at the end of the day and lock the contents securely away elsewhere.

– Keep an inventory of tools, together with any serial numbers, and photograph anything valuable.

– Mark tools so that, if they are stolen, it will be easier to reunite owners with any property recovered by police.

– Try to park your vehicle in a well-lit area, ideally covered by CCTV.

Anyone offered second-hand tools for sale is also urged to check for any identifying marks on them and alert police to anything suspicious.

Those with information about these last three thefts should call police on 01843 222289, quoting the reference number 46/198679/23.

You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form.