Caravan thefts expose holes in security

Jun 9 2009 By Mark Goode

A CAMPING site in Laleham has increased security after two caravans were stolen.

Laleham Camping Club, in Laleham Park, had two of the vehicles taken on Sunday May 31 and Wednesday May 27, so last weekend, staff shut off the entrance to a neighbouring car park completely.

Bill Hudspith, treasurer at the site, said: "The first caravan was taken through the fence into the car park, and the gate used to be open 24 hours. So this weekend we have closed the gate completely, and put a wooden fence up at the site of the break in."

The first incident took place between 10.30 and 11.00am on May 27 where the criminals forced back several fence panels before stealing a clamped white Swift Blakemere touring caravan.

The second theft occurred at around 4.30am on Sunday May 31 when the offenders broke off a padlock on the front gate and stole a 25-foot-long white and blue Hobby caravan.

Witnesses reported seeing a white van with a blue roof towing the vehicle.

Mr Hudspith said: "It is a bit worrying for the site when people are getting away with it. It's quite disturbing, and as a camp site the last thing we want is for people to feel unsafe, as then they won't come."

Mr Hudspith added that most thefts of this nature happen during the day, because people are generally sleeping in them at night.

He said: "But regarding the second theft, the guy dropped it off here and left it, so it got stolen. The last time this happened the police had CCTV images of the thieves driving over Chertsey Bridge, and when they went to court they didn't get charged."

Detective constable Phil Carter, of Staines CID, said: "This has obviously been a very upsetting experience for both victims because they lived in the caravans which contained all of their possessions."

DC Carter believes the offenders bought specialist equipment with them to steal the vehicles, and said Staines CID are keeping an open mind over the thefts being linked.

He added that the offenders probably had transport, and may have operated in a gang.

Anyone with information is asked to call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference SL/09/4258 for the first incident and SL/09/4375 for the second theft. Alternatively call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.