BUILDERS and workmen are being warned to be extra careful after a string of thefts of vans, where owners have left the keys inside vehicles while working.

The thieves have struck twice in Botley, once in Faringdon and Grove and an attempted theft in East Hanney.

Michael Haines, 49, and his brother Geoff were carrying out building work at a house in Vale Avenue, Grove, on January 22, when a thief jumped into their Ford Transit van and drove away.

Geoff Haines used a second van to chase the thief and the vehicle was later found abandoned with all the tools still inside in Steventon.

Michael Haines said: “We left the keys in because we were loading things into the van.

“Geoff came running in and said someone had just nicked my van. I thought he was joking.

“But I looked outside and saw it being driven away.

“Every time I’m working now and I hear a car roll up, I am jumping up and looking.”

The series of thefts started on November 2, when a Ford Transit van was stolen from Pinnocks Way, Botley.

Thieves attempted unsuccessfully to steal a Ford Transit in Mill Orchard, East Hanney, at about 12.40pm on November 17, but succeeded in taking a Vauxhall Vivaro from Lechlade Road, Faringdon, two hours later.

Ford Transit vans were also stolen from Eynsham Road, Botley, at 3.20pm on Thursday, January 21, and Vale Avenue, Grove, at 4pm on Friday, January 22.

Sgt Jon Axford warned tradesman to keep their vehicles locked, even if they are only leaving them for a few minutes.

Call police on 08458 505505 or the Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111.