Police hunt JCB thieves

POLICE are appealing for information following the thefts of two mechanical diggers in Warrington.
The thefts took place over the past two days and officers are appealing for anyone who might have witnessed the incidents to come forward.
In the first incident, which took place between 6.40pm on Monday, (July 26) and 7.30am the following day, a JCB digger was stolen from a field in Cherry Hall Lane in Lymm.
In the second which took place overnight on Wednesday, July 28, a JCB digger and a van were stolen from a business in Black Bear Park, Latchford. Thieves forced the main gates of the site and stole the equipment.
Officers are following a number of lines of enquiry. But this week, officers urged anyone with any information which might assist with their enquiries, to get in touch.
Inspector Gary McIntyre said: “We are urging anyone who witnessed either theft or anyone who has any information about who could be responsible to come forward. These thefts happened over the past few days and someone might have spotted something that at the time they did not think was significant but could potentially help with our enquiries.
“We are asking anyone who sees a JCB digger being driven around the area or anyone who sees one being driven on the back of a low loader to get in touch.”
Local businesses are being urged to be vigilant and to take time to reassess their current security – to reduce the risk of being targeted.
Inspector McIntyre added: “Businesses need to remain security conscious and ensure that all equipment is locked away and preferably out of sight – especially overnight. We would urge any business that uses CCTV to ensure it is working properly and switched on at all times. This not only acts as a deterrent to would-be thieves but also provides vital evidence if someone is caught on camera. Any alarm systems should also be activated overnight.”
Anyone can help should call police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.