THIEVES forced entry to a business in Carnforth by cutting through metal security bars before stealing items worth more than £6,000.

Cumbria Police are investigating a spate of chainsaw thefts in the area and have appealed for any witnesses to come forward.

Police said the thieves stole three Stihl, eight Husquarna model chainsaws and two Stihl hedge cutters during the incident on December 19.

PC Patrick Cantley said the owner of the business is 'devastated'.

"The work he carries out in the local area is vitally important to ensuring the safety of people," he said.

"This theft could have potentially had a massive impact on his business, fortunately for him, this was not the case but consequences may have been serious given the high winds experienced recently.

“I appeal to anyone who has any knowledge of this incident or any others in the area to get in contact. Also we are appealing for anyone who may have been offered a chain saw for sale to get in contact.

“No matter how small the detail, it could be vital in bringing those responsible to justice and even allowing the victims to have their property returned so they are able to get back to work.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Cumbria Police on 101 and ask for PC Patrick Cantley or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.