CHEEKY thieves broke into a white transit van parked behind houses in Hough lane, Tyldesley, on Thursday night and made off with model cars and other equipment estimated to be worth almost £4,000.

The thieves struck between 6.30pm when the van was parked by model car enthusiast Neil Ward behind the home of his estranged wife Wendy Edmundson while he spent the evening in her company.

When he left at 11pm he found the goods, which included a one-eighth model Schumacher model car complete with electronic speed control, had all been taken.

Now he is appealing for anyone who sells models to be on the lookout for anyone offering goods at knockdown prices.

Wendy said: "The total value of the goods stolen is estimated at £3,760 and the thieves knew what they were doing. They didn't smash the van window but removed it instead. The theft was reported to the police but we are appealing for anyone who finds what they think could be abandoned toy car tyres or other items which could be some of the parts stolen to contact me. And if anyone is offered models at reduced price then they should ring the police or myself."

Anyone who can help is asked to ring Wendy on 01942 891855 or Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050, extension 67381.

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