​Lorry drivers travelling through Gloucestershire are being warned to be on their guard following the theft of 50 tumble dryers from a haulage carrier.

Police are particularly warning drivers to be aware when stopping to rest in isolated areas like the Cotswolds.

PC Mark Godsland, crime prevention design adviser, said: “Drivers need to take regular breaks, but sadly vehicles parked in laybys or isolated industrial estates can be targeted by thieves.

“We encourage drivers to choose their lay-over sites carefully, make sure they are not isolated, in a well-lit area if possible and to try to park near other drivers.

“We are working with the Haulage Association to provide crime prevention advice to drivers and companies and send this message to the wider community that they work with.”

A vehicle was targeted on the A38 near Berkeley between 8pm on February 3 and 12.30am on February 4. When the driver woke, he found the trailer had been cut and 50 new tumble dryers had been stolen.