WORKMEN in Rossendale are being urged not to let thieves put a spanner in the works in the run up to Christmas.

The warning to workmen to be on their guard follows a spate of tool thefts in the Haslingden area.

Police warn that in the last month vehicles have been targeted and equipment valued at thousands of pounds stolen.

It is feared the situation could get worse as festive criminals go out on the prowl to target vehicles with tools left on display.

According to police chiefs, tools top the list of most sought after items for thieves, closely followed by car stereos, mobile phones, cash, bags, jackets and electrical equipment.

They say that since the beginning of October, eight people have had tools stolen from work vans, predominantly parked in residential areas in Haslingden.

Inspector Dave Shepherd said: "It is unwise to leave any item of value in your vehicle overnight but at the moment, our main concern is the theft of tools from cars and vans.

"If you normally keep tools stored in your vehicle then please remove them and put them somewhere safe where thieves can't get to them."

"Judging by the size and quantity of tools stolen in Haslingden the thieves were probably travelling by vehicle themselves.

Inspector Shepherd added: "Some motorists even display a sticker warning thieves

that the vehicle is empty which is another good idea. The harder we can make

it for thieves, the better it is for us all."

Inspector Shepherd appealed for information about the latest thefts and urged witnesses to come forward.

He said: "If anyone has seen anything suspicious or perhaps been offered tools at a price that seems too good to be true, then I would urge them to contact police."

Anybody with information should contact police on 01282 425001 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers free and in confidence on 0800 555 111.