Police were notified of 13 separate offences of thefts or attempted thefts from vehicles in the Launceston area between Tuesday, January 15 and Wednesday, January 16.

The offences have mainly involved vans with power tools, resulting in thousands of pounds worth of equipment stolen.

Similar spikes have been recently seen in St Austell, Bodmin and other areas. Police have made extensive enquiries and are working through a large amount of information in an effort to identify those responsible.

Tim Ashley, a tradesman from Launceston, was a victim of these vehicle thefts and has lost thousands because of it.

He said: “My truck was parked at Kensey Valley Meadow, we had a climbing chainsaw, two hedge trimmers and a leaf blower stolen totalling around £2,000 to replace.

“I’ve never seen anything or expect anything like this to happen in a town like Launceston. I feel so sorry for all the businesses, not for the loss of tools, but the loss of work and sense of security that runs through our minds since it happened.”

On Thursday, January 17, power tool cases were found littered around the Launceston area, leading to some to speculate that this was an attempt to make more space for the valuable tools and equipment.

Devon and Cornwall Police are advising the public not to leave their tools and equipment for prolonged periods in their vans, especially overnight.

PC Steve Stoppard from Launceston said: “We are trying to build up a picture at this point. What we are urging people to do is to start emptying their vans at night. Even after a long day, don’t risk leaving any tools or items of value.”

He went on to advise some prevention methods that could help.

“Having an alarm fitted will prevent any thief from wanting to break in. Some people have installed secure units inside their work vans, so that the equipment is in a secure environment at all times.

“The key element is being able to delay anyone breaking in for as long as possible.”

PC Stoppard added: “We are urging people if they see anything suspicious then call us. It would be helpful for people to check CCTV recordings and vehicle dashcams.”

One business committed to helping those who have fallen victim to the thefts is Rocks Locks, a locksmith company in Southgate Street, Launceston.

They have offered people who have had any tools taken to get in contact with them and they will try to replace what they can, at cost price.

Julie Jasper, manager of Rocks Locks said: “We want to help as being being part of the community.

“In times like this, the community really comes together to help one another. At the end of the day these tools that have been stolen are peoples livelihoods and they need them to survive.

“Ian [Rocks, director] is even offering free surveys to check over what security might be needed and we are always at the end of the phone.”

Ian has seen a spike in people looking to get protection for their vehicles and their homes. He explained they have a variety of equipment that will help to combat people from breaking in.

“We have locks, alarms, floodlights, all types of things that would suite different budgets. We have more specialist stuff coming in soon as well.”

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have information regarding this series of thefts, or have not previously reported this type of crime to contact them via [email protected] or by calling 101 quoting reference CR/004813/19.

Police would also like to hear from anyone who saw a 2005 Silver Nissan X-Trailer or similar in the area on either January 15 or 16.

Further advice on keeping your vehicle safe from thieves can be found on the Devon & Cornwall Police website www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/advice/your-business/tools-at-risk/