Police are urging the public to be vigilant following a spate of thefts from vehicles in the Silloth area.

Officers received seven reports of theft that occurred overnight, between January 10 and 11, after vans were targeted and tools stolen.

An old-style, light-coloured X-Trail type vehicle was seen in the area and officers are appealing for information on the movements of this vehicle.

Acting Detective Sergeant Sam Johnson said: “Enquiries are ongoing this morning to investigate a number of reported thefts from motor vehicles. We believe that vans are being targeted by criminals for tools.

“We would like anyone with information on an X-Trail type vehicle which was seen overnight in the area. I’d also encourage anyone else who has had their vehicle targeted or has had property stolen to report it to us so we can investigate.

“Tool theft is anything but a victimless crime – it not only hurts financially in terms of replacement tools, but also lost work for those who require them as part of their job. I’d ask everyone to be vigilant and follow the advice we are issuing to protect your possessions.”

Advice from police includes avoiding leaving tools in vehicles overnight and keeping them out of sight, parking in well-lit areas, installing alarms and immobilisers, and marking tools using high tech solutions like SelectDNA or Datatag.

Anyone with information on these thefts is asked to contact police on 101 and ask to speak to PC Hein Van Der Westhuizen. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.