Police are warning office workers to check the credentials of any visiting workers after a spate of thefts by bogus workmen.

The most recent incident was at around 7.30am on Tuesday at premises in Tong Street, Bradford, where a man wearing a high-visibility vest entered an office and stole the keys to a Ford Transit van before driving off in the vehicle. 

The vehicle was recovered later the same day in East Bierley and enquiries are continuing.

Police believe it may be linked to a number of similar incidents reported in the city, as well as in Leeds and Kirklees districts.

The thefts have mainly been from business premises, although schools and care facilities have also reported incidents.

A 35-year-old man from Bradford has been arrested in connection with a number of thefts from premises and has been bailed to allow for further enquiries to be made.

PC Andrew Hood, of the Bradford South Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “The suspect pretends to be a member of staff by wearing workman-type clothing, so we would ask businesses who have workmen on their premises to challenge anyone they are not sure about.”

Any suspicious activity can be reported to police by calling 101.