A CARPENTER says his livelihood has been seriously affected after having £7,000 worth of tools stolen from his van.

The theft happened at about 11.45pm on Wednesday (January 24) in Tournament Road, Salisbury.

The victim, who has asked not to be named, said: “I can’t do my job without my tools. I haven’t got £7,000 to replace them.

“It is my only means of earning money.”

More than 20 individual tools were stolen as well as batteries and tool boxes. These included a number of Dewalt tools such as saws, combi drills and nail guns.

Some of the tool boxes taken from the van were found dumped in Folly View, Bemerton Heath.

Thieves also damaged the lock of the van, which has to be repaired.

The victim is offering a reward for the safe return of all the tools.

He said: “I’m stuck at the moment, my only real hope is getting the tools back.”