Leicestershire Police has issued a warning about a number of thefts of tools from vans in the Ashby area.

The offences have been occurring from domestic driveways - and once 'under the cover of darkness' when the street lights went out at midnight.

The police's Neighbourhood Link has urged businesses to beware, and highlighted sightings of a blue Seat Leon following a recent theft.

The Neighbourhood Link message says: "Tradespeople please be aware of a slight increase in this type of offence.

"These thefts have recently been taking place between 22:00 hours and 01:00 hours in the morning.

"In one recent case, thieves waited for the streetlighting to go off at midnight and then struck 10 minutes later under cover of darkness.

"On one occasion a witness saw a blue Seat Leon making off from the scene.

"If you can park your vehicle out of sight or up against a garage or wall to frustrate access.

"NO TOOLS LEFT IN THIS VAN OVERNIGHT" stickers are available to purchase."