A West Lothian dad is “gutted” after thieves stole his new work van and £30,000 worth of tools.
Pete Fleming is in the process of setting up his own business, Autofix Brothers, with his younger brother but the mechanics have had a spanner in the works after a work van containing all their tools was nicked.
The incident took place on Loanfoot Road, Uphall, shortly before 4am on Tuesday, October 15.
Pete has recently welcomed his second child into the world and was celebrating his 30th birthday on Monday, October 14, prior to the theft outside his family home.
The blue MK-6 Transit van is distinguishable with an AutoFix Brothers logo on the front and gold trims on the tyres.
Pete has asked for members of the public to come forward and contact police if they have any information relating to the incident.
“Our whole business is in the van,” he said.
“I’m not even bothered about the van but about £30,000 worth of tools were in it.
“My younger brother and I are setting up a garage and the whole business relies on those tools. It has left us unable to trade with a massive financial hole we are going to have to fix.
“I’m gutted, absolutely gutted. Everything is at a standstill now and my family rely on me to bring the money in.
“I have two kids, one is a newborn, my wife is on maternity leave and my brother and customers are relying on me. I feel everyone has been let down. I honestly do not care about the van. I just want the tools back.
“There are too many emotions at the moment. I do not know whether to laugh or greet.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We received a report of the theft of a van from a property on Loanfoot Road, Uphall, between 11pm on Monday, October 14, and 8am on Tuesday, October 15. Enquiries are ongoing.”
Don’t miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here