VAN drivers are being urged to remove work tools from their vehicles overnight following a surge in thefts.

Police in Darlington have increased patrols in the town to combat the re-emerging problem.

They are also considering relaunching Operation Hawkeye, which helped to reduce car crime last year.

Sgt Mark Ralphs, from Darlington Police, said car crime had again started to increase in the town.

He said there was a particular problem with work tools being stolen overnight from the back of vans.

Although most were not on view, some were being taken from vans which were not locked.

Sgt Ralphs said other vehicle crime had been on the rise across the town and urged all drivers not to leave items where they can be seen.

He added: "If you have a lot of work tools don't leave them in your van overnight but take them inside."