BURNLEY police are appealing for the safe return of a hospital van containing £3,000 worth of hospital equipment.

The white Ford Transit diesel van with the registration number N162 FFV is marked with the Burnley Healthcare NHS Trust logo.

It was taken from outside the Community Loan Store at Burnley General Hospital during the Easter weekend.

The van contained a significant amount of medical equipment, none of which has a use outside the medical profession.

PC Martin Ward of Burnley Police said: "We would like to hear from anyone who may have seen the van being taken, or anyone who has since spotted it.

"We are anxious not only to trace the vehicle, but also the contents, which include aids for elderly patients needed by the hospital."

Anyone with information should call PC Ward on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.