Spate of thefts from vans in Keynsham and other locations in Bath and North East Somerset

Thieves have been targeting vans and stealing tools and machinery in Keynsham and other places in Bath and North East Somerset.

Police say 11 thefts have been reported in the last fortnight in Keynsham, Paulton, Peasedown St John, Radstock, and in Odd Down and Twerton in Bath.

Most of the offences have happened overnight, but some have been committed during the day.

Police are advising van drivers to take sensible crime prevention steps - removing all valuable items from vehicles overnight and always ensuring that they are locked and the windows secure.

"Even during the day when the vehicle is in use, the keys should never be left in an unattended vehicle," said an Avon & Somerset police spokesman.

Anyone with information about the thefts, or who sees anyone suspicious around vans and building sites, such as people posing as workmen or drivers, is asked to call Bath the police on 101.