CONCERNED van owners in fear of thefts following the current spate of vehicle break-ins have banded together to set up a closed social media group where intelligence and security can be shared.

One of the organisers of the group, Michael Hughes states, ‘I decided to contact Abergavenny Police on twitter asking what they intended to do and was told that leads were being followed up. I felt that was not good enough.

‘I requested a home security survey and two community offices came around. I showed them the difficulties I faced with my van and tools they agreed it was a tricky one.

“It was suggested we set up a group for members to keep an eye on each other and work together to try and deter thefts.

‘Several local people are now on board and to enter this group you have to give details of your name and address, van and registration number. We take a screen shot of this then accept them so it’s extremely safe.

‘We can keep an eye on their van if anyone goes past, post possible activity in the area and even fit CCTV and post live streams in the group. We also welcome security specialists into the group.’

Anyone interested in joining the group will have to go through a process of verification but can set the ball rolling by going to Facebook and seeking out Abergavenny and District Van watch.