Police appeal after power tool thefts

A chainsaw was reported stolen from a shed in Spring Lane in Etchingham on February 10.

The locks had been broken and half the door was smashed in during the break in, which happened whilst the owners were away.

Meanwhile another chainsaw was taken from a vehicle parked in Fontridge Lane, also in Etchingham, between 12.30pm on February 10 and 1.30pm the next day.

Thieves broke the side window to get into the vehicle and a rail card holder containing cash was also stolen in the raid.

A Stihl chainsaw and a brush cutter were stolen from a barn in Foots Lane, Burwash Weald.

The building had not been visited since October 2009 and the incident was reported to police on February 10.

Last month 12 chainsaws and a petrol blower, worth a total of 4,500, were stolen from a site in Marley Lane, Battle.

Sergeant Sarah Porter, of Sussex Police, said: "Over the past couple of months, there have been a number of breaks to vehicles, sheds and garages, whereby power tools have been stolen.

"Rother police are keen to emphasise to people that where possible, placing padlocks and alike onto the doors is good practice and can act as a positive deterrent.

"When leaving items in vehicles, please ensure that goods are not visible within it, and all items are clearly labelled and marked."

Anyone with any information about the thefts should contact police on 0845 60 70 999.