A MAN had £1,500 worth of tools stolen from his van parked outside a college... while he was inside attending a parents evening.

Jason Hair, who works for JHP Electricals, had power tools and equipment taken from Seevic college’s car park off Runnymede Chase, Thundersley.

Mr Hair, from Canvey, described the impact the theft has had on the business - and his life.

The 47-year-old, said: “We’re a small business run by a group for friends. We only have three vans.

“We’ve also got a van out of action.

“I didn’t have content insurance on any of them. I’ll have to get second-hand tools to start off with now. It’s a huge pressure on us all.”

The tools stolen include a jigsaw, drills and a socket set.

Jason explained his reaction when he opened the back doors of his van to find it was empty. He said: “We live in a horrible World.

“I was in complete shock.

“These guys were professionals. They knew what they were doing.

“There was no damage to back doors, which made me even more surprised when nothing was there.

“There was adequate lighting across the main car park, but we were parked closer to the entrance. There wasn’t as much good lighting there.”

Mr Hair’s wife, Tanya, posted on social media, stating that the crooks had tried to get in through the back door, before bending the top of the side door to gain access.

The central locking system of the van has also been damaged.

A spokesman from Essex Police urged anyone with information to come forward. He said: “We received a report on Wednesday, January 22, about the theft of tools from a vehicle parked at Seevic College in Runnymede Chase, Benfleet.

“Suspects left with several electrical testers, powers tools and a tool bag.

“Anyone with information is asked to call Essex Police on 101 quoting crime reference 42/11966/20.”