AN ambulance mechanic returned from a house viewing to find his work van and £4,000 of tools had been stolen.

The white Ford transit van was taken from Royston Avenue, Noak Bridge, where it was parked.

Mechanic Clint Day, 33, who was lived in the road for three years, lost vital equipment he has collected over the past 15 years.

He works for Flavin Consulting, a company which repairs the East of England Ambulance Service's fleet of vehicles.

Mr Day said: “I’m still in shock.

“Being a van down puts a strain on the company to provide 24/7 on call repair work for the ambulance service.

“I had gone to view a house in Benfleet with my wife, and when we returned to the road I didn’t notice at first, but I knew something wasn’t right.

“Then I thought ‘great that’s all of my tools gone.’

“This is a quiet and friendly road- you don’t expect something like this.
“I am lost for words.”

This is the first time Mr Day, who lives with his wife and her daughter, has been a victim of crime.

The van contained drills, a computer and stock equipment for ambulances, including spare wheels.

Essex Police is investigating the theft, which took place between 5.15pm and 9.50pm on Wednesday.

A spokesman said: “Police have received a report of the theft of a white Ford Transit van from outside a property in Royston Avenue.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact police in Basildon on 101.”

The van, registration EJ56 XBK, has Flavin Consulting LTD emblazoned in black and purple paint.

Paul Henry, head of fleet at the ambulance service, said: This will not affect us responding to patients, we will ensure we have other providers and measures in place to cover us at this time.”