A tree surgeon has had thousands of pounds worth of tools stolen after thieves targeted his van parked on the driveway of his own home.

Matthew De Martino, who runs West Wales Sustainable Woodland Services, had parked his van outside his house at Hermon, Crymych, when the thieves struck in the early hours of last Wednesday morning (March 29).

They smashed a window in the van and then took a stash of tools and equipment worth in the region of £4,000.

“The van was parked on my drive, behind closed gates,” said Mr Martino, who has been running his business for the past seven or eight years.

“It was only three or four feet away from the house but there was heavy rain that night and we never heard a thing. I have talked to the police and they think it was a professional job.

“They chose a night where the weather was going to help by covering up their tracks or anything that was left behind.”

Four chainsaws – a Husqvarna 550xp, a Husqvarna 365, a Stihl ms200 and an Echo 2511 – a red DMM climbing bag kit and 45m of rope, a Dewalt cordless drill and a Stihl leaf blower were all stolen.

“It was all professional equipment and has taken a few years to build up. It will cost between £3,500 and £4,000 to replace,” said the 30-year-old.

The theft has hit self-employed Mr De Martino hard as he has a young toddler and his partner is eight months pregnant.

However, he has thanked people in the area who have rallied round to help him to keep his business running.

“I am very grateful to the local community as a lot of people have offered me bits and pieces to borrow so I can carry on working,” said Mr De Martino.

“The thieves just don’t care about the impact this has had. I never imagined anything like this happening in the area and I just want to warn other people to be on their guard.

“If anyone has any information it would be a massive help although I do not hold out much hope. If you notice anyone trying to sell these tools please contact the police.”

One of the chainsaws has the word ‘Nick’ written on it in permanent marker.

Anyone with information should contact Dyfed-Powys Police on 101.