A CHAINSAW was one of the items taken in a spate of 40 outbuilding thefts last month.

Bikes, generators and gardening equipment have all been stolen from sheds, garages and allotments across Welwyn Hatfield since May 1.

Welwyn Hatfield neighbourhood inspector Ian Grout said officers were now on the hunt for the thieves, who have used force to break in.

“We are doing everything we can to try and trace those people responsible,” he said. “We tend to see an increase in this type of crime at this time of year and would urge residents to check their outbuildings and homes are fully secure and that anything of value is stored inside the house.”

During the raids a bike was stolen from an unlocked communal shed in Cole Green Lane, WGC, between 3pm on May 29 and midnight the next day.

Two generators with tanks on top, worth about �650, were also stolen from an address on the Great North Road between 8pm on May 27 and 12.30pm on May 28.

While a chainsaw, an outboard motor and grasscutters were stolen from a shed in Coopers Green Lane between May 20 and May 23.

Insp Grout added: “If you see anyone acting suspiciously or who looks out of place, we would like to hear from you.

“It may be a good time to think about setting up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme or just look out for your neighbours.”

Call 0845 33 00 222 with information.