POLICE are urging van owners to be extra vigilant following the theft of a number of Ford Transits in the past 10 days.

Officers are warning residents across the Forth Valley after three Transits have been stolen from the Falkirk area in less than two weeks.

Sergeant Lyne Rushford of Forth Valley’s Community Investigation Unit said: “I would ask that anyone who sees any persons acting suspiciously around vans in the Falkirk area to call 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.

“I’m also keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any of these three thefts or has information about where the vans are now.

“Van owners should take steps to make their vehicles as unattractive to thieves as possible. Always make sure you lock your van and remove any valuables, whether in the back or on display. Make sure your van is alarmed and park it in a garage or a well-lit, public area.”

On Sunday June 12, a white Transit van with the registration SA12 AAO was stolen from Abbotsinch Industrial Estate in Grangemouth.

Then this weekend, overnight Sunday into Monday, another white Transit with the registration NG59 FCZ was taken from Lind Place in Bonnybridge.

In the third theft, a white Transit tipper with the registration NJ14 JXZ was stolen from North Main Street in Carronshore.

Anyone with any information regarding the thefts is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.

To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.