Thornbury:- Police recover two stolen vans

Thornbury police have recovered two stolen vans after a farmer found them hidden in a field.

Neighbourhood PC Roger Hopes was contacted by the farmer today, Thursday August 05 2010.

The white Ford Transit vans were well hidden in undergrowth in the field and one of them was on false plates. Officers have traced the owners and the vehicles have been recovered for forensic examination.

Both of the vans were stolen on Monday August 02 2010. One was taken from Frampton Cotterell. The owner had briefly left it unlocked with the keys in the ignition. The other was taken from Alveston after the owner left the keys unattended while working nearby.

PC Hopes said: "It's really important to keep an eye on your keys at all times – it only takes a few seconds for a thief to take your car or van. Luckily we have been able to recover these vans and at least some of the tools as well.

"I would appeal for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area of Fern Hill especially the field opposite the Scout camp, or who has any other information about the theft of these vehicles, to contact Thornbury police station on 0845 456 7000.

"Alternatively contact the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 or through www.crimestoppers-uk.org. They never ask your name or trace your call."

Security advice to van owners includes:

• Empty your van of tools and equipment overnight

• Always lock it and set the alarm or immobiliser if you have one

• Permanently mark tools with your business name or postcode

• Park in a busy, well-lit area, ideally with the doors to the body of the van against a wall

There's more vehicle security information on the police website, www.avonandsomerset.police.uk