LATEST: Business hit by firework thieves hits back with 'military grade' security

THIEVES stole £20,000 worth of fireworks in a raid on a Denholme business.

The fireworks were taken from the New Coley Nurseries, on Halifax/Keighley Road - the first year it has stocked fireworks.

The items, which were all types with a Bright Star brand on them, were locked up in a container.

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But the company has vowed to fight on despite the setback and its suppliers have already replenished its fireworks stock last weekend.

The burglary took place on Thursday, October 26, between 12.45am and 2.30am. It is believed two men are behind the raid, which saw them move a forklift truck which was parked in front of the container.

It is believed the thieves initially broke into the container featuring the fireworks between 8pm and 9.30pm the previous night.

Oliver Kenny, of New Coley, said the business has quickly stepped up its security measures following the burglary by employing a security guard with a dog to deter any further incidents.

He said: "We put so much hard work into getting everything set up.

"To be robbed of these fireworks is very upsetting. Unfortunately it is not surprising. They came in and took the lot.

"It is the first year we have stocked fireworks.

"But we are fighting back and we are not going to let who has done this win.

"We have re-stocked and wanted to let our 7,000 garden club members know.

"They have got away in a black Transporter van.

"Our suppliers re-stocked us within 24 hours of the robbery.

"We don't want to let people down. We have improved our security and have got CCTV images of what happened."

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Police are investigating a burglary in Manywells Brow in the early hours of Thursday, October 26, which saw boxes of fireworks taken from a container.

"A vehicle is believed to have been used in the offence and the fireworks stolen are thought to be similar to ones on general sale to members of the public.

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"Enquiries are continuing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Shipley Neighbourhood Area Team on 101, quoting crime reference 13170497656, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111."