AN opportunistic thief jumped into a van delivering plants and trees to a Darlington home and sped off in the vehicle, spilling debris into the road.

It happened at around 4pm today (Monday, November 18) as the van from Birch Nurseries of Darlington was making a delivery on Ashcroft Road off Coniscliffe Road, near Darlington town centre.

As the driver unloaded the goods from the side door of the white Mercedes Sprinter van, a man jumped into the driver’s seat and drove off.

Potted plants and miniature trees spilled out of the open side door of the vehicle as it sped across Coniscliffe Road and made a sharp turn into Manor Road where it made its escape.

Plants, trees and broken pots were left scattered in its wake and Darlington Borough Council workers helped clean up the debris.

Any witnesses to the incident should contact Darlington Police on 101.