RIPPED OPEN LIKE A TIN CAN

Four vans mamgled as high-value tools stolen

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE Countryside and Tourism Editor

SKILLED workers and their families were left devastated when thieves carried out an astonishing series of brazen raids in broad daylight.

Thousands of pounds worth of tools were taken from four vans parked up at two golf clubs in northeast Wales.

Pictures show the thieves drilled out locks to gain entry.

In at least one case, a hole was ripped in the side of a van as if a giant tin opener had been used.

North Wales Police is investigating the break-ins and has appealed for witnesses and video evidence.

Three raids were reported at Wrexham Golf Club and another a short while later at Vale of Llangollen Golf Club on Saturday, May 31.

At Llangollen's car park, joiner Jason Jones returned from a round of golf to find two holes in his Ford Transit and its contents missing.

He estimated 23 cordless tools, mostly expensive Makitas worth around £3,000, were stolen.

Now lacking his van and tools, all planned work has been rescheduled, leaving him and his business, Marson Joinery, further out of pocket.

"So bloody angry," said his partner online. "Can't believe nobody saw this happening. I hope whoever did this is so proud of themselves - you are an absolute disgrace."