Owners of a family-run business say they have been left “struggling” after thieves were caught on CCTV brazenly stealing a £15,000 work van.
Kathryn Wayland, who runs Medway Windows and Doors with her husband, described the theft as devastating for their ability to serve customers effectively.
In CCTV footage sent to KentOnline, two men can be seen breaking into the white Citroën van on the night of Tuesday, March 11, before driving off in a matter of minutes.
The theft, which took place on Cross Lane East in Gravesend, is now under investigation by police.
“The van was parked near our fitter’s house,” said Mrs Wayland.
“We have two vans in total, so losing one has a huge impact on our work.
“Sometimes the fitters work together on big jobs like a full house of windows, but other times they split up — one might do a door, another might do a window.
“Now that we’re down a van, it’s going to be difficult not to let our customers down.”
The stolen van, which Mrs Wayland said had been with them since new, was essential to their work.
“The van’s five years old now, and I doubt I’ll get the money from the insurance to buy something equivalent,” she said.
“It’s probably worth between £15,000 and £20,000.”
Mrs Wayland has been running the business for the last seven years and says despite having good CCTV footage she is not confident the van will be returned.
“I presume they’re professionals – the quickness they took it suggests that,” added
“I don’t have much hope that we’ll find it.”
What makes the loss even more frustrating is that the van was customised specifically for the business.
“It’s all kitted out with racks for glass and everything,” She went on.
“It’s not just the cost of replacing the van — it’s the time and effort that went into setting it up for the business.”
Police confirmed they received a report that a white Citroen van had been stolen from Cross Lane East, Gravesend, at around 10:55 pm on Tuesday, March 11.
An investigation is underway, and officers are urging anyone with information to contact the appeal line on 01474 366149, quoting reference 12-0118.
