Thieves may have returned to the scene of their crime a number of times while stealing £23,000 worth of heavy construction equipment from Brandon Tool Hire’s premises in Worcester Road, Malvern, say police.

“Due to the size or weight of the stolen items they would have had to use a vehicle and could well have returned on more than one occasion,” said a spokesman for Malvern Hills Police.

“They may have been there for some time on each occasion and could have been seen arriving and departing by a number of people who may not have been suspicious at the time.

“We hope that when those people see or hear about what has happened they will be able to come forward with helpful information.”

Taken were: A £10,000 yellow and black Caterpillar 301-8 (2008 model) mini-digger (serial number JSB01081); A £9,500 yellow Terex HD1001 front-tipper dumper - model DT010H201665; chassis number SLBDRP00E805FT384; engine number 890639; A £2,500 galvanized steel Wessex trailer - with Brandon Hire markings - serial number 1175905, plant number W0TGP189; A £650 blue hydraulic jack used on vehicles up to 25 tons, serial number 2847009; A £300 blue hydraulic jack used on vehicles up to 30 tons, serial number L4234906; The thefts occurred between 1200 hours on 18th April and 0730 hours on 20th April. Anyone with information can call 0300 333 3000, asking for PC Grant Lawrence on ext. 4325 and quoting 71S/200409.Information can also be given - anonymously and free-of-charge - to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.