POLICE officers investigating the theft of tools from a van at the Lakeside Shopping Centre have released images of a man they want to speak to.

Tools worth a four figure sum were taken at around 10.55pm on Saturday, 15 February.

The owner of the van, from South Ockendon, says he was disappointed the measures and a supposed increased police in the area did not deter the theft from his vehicle, saying at the time of the theft: "This happened tonight at Lakeside shopping centre open air CARPARK zone 8 - right under the floodlights and three cctv cameras 

"I'm self employed and they have taken everything- yes I know I should have taken my tools out but was on call and only took my missus to the cinema for a couple of hours."

The theft on 15 February was one of a number in the area over a number of days. This vehicle was broken into a few days later close by.

A police statement says: "We appreciate these are not the clearest or best quality photos but if you do recognise the man please contact us.

"If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

"Please quote the crime reference number 42/21547/25.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. 

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our online reporting services.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."