THIEVES broke into a Landrover and made off with several items, after unsuccessful attempts at ‘hotwiring’ it.

The incident occurred in the Dent area between 5pm on Tuesday night and 9am the following day.

Thieves caused 'substantial damage' to the steering column and lock while attempting to hotwire the vehicle.

But they were unable to start the car so instead made off with a chainsaw, jacket and tool box being kept inside.

“The Dent area seems to be an easy target at the moment and we need to stop the offenders from taking what is not theirs,” said the area’s PCSO, Mandy Coleman.

“If anyone has seen anyone or a vehicle acting suspiciously in the area, or indeed anyone you do not know or a strange vehicle especially in the early hours, please ring in, however small you might think the piece of information is.”

The thieves had previously dismantled the headlights and the horn so the alarm would not work.

Anybody with information is asked to contact PC Neil Barrow at Kendal Police Station on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“Please help us to put a stop to crime in your area,” added PCSO Coleman.