THOUSANDS of pounds of tools have been stolen from vans in separate thefts in Newton-le-Willows this week.

Police are hunting for offenders after two thefts in the area have been reported.

Overnight between Tuesday, April 3 and Wednesday 4 a on Market Street, Earlestown a parked Citroen Relay was forced into with a crowbar.

The thieves stole tools worth approximately £5,000 from the vehicle after what officers described as a "messy search" of the van.

Meanwhile, the following night between Wednesday and Thursday another vehicle was broken into on Park Road South, Newton.

Entry to the vehicle was gained by damaging a passenger side quarter panel

The offenders have stolen between £2,000 and £3,000 worth of tools after they rummaged through the vehicle.

Officers sent out a warning following the thefts.

They said: "Please be aware of thieves operating in the area. Remove as many items from your van as practicable, keep items off show and park your vehicle in a well-lit area."

Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.