A spate of thefts in one Watford ward has sparked a warning for van owners to review their security.

Nine thefts from vehicles have been reported this month in Tudor Ward, which stretches from near Watford Junction to just past Watford North railway station.

Herts Police say thousands of pounds worth of tools have been taken, with PC Aaron George adding the thefts "have had a huge impact on the victims, as it often leaves them unable to work". 

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Officers are doing all they can and police patrols have been increased, PC George said, but the best way to protect tools is removing all valuables from vehicles when leaving them unattended. 

Other advice includes double checking locks and windows, parking near CCTV or doorbell cameras, parking near walls or hedges, installing alarms or additional locks including lockable cabinets within the van, permanently marking tools, and taking pictures of and registering valuable items.

Police advise marking tools using paint pens and sealing it with a clear lacquer spray or using property marking systems. This makes tools more difficult to sell on and therefore less desirable to thieves.

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