A garden centre owner is counting the cost of a break-in which has forced him to tighten security.

Out of pocket - centre owners must replace four strimmers and install security systems after break-in. Picture: TERENCE BUNCH 7DGX64

Alan Chadwick, who owns the Basildon Garden Centre, in Nevendon Road, Pitsea, with his son Robert, was woken by the burglar alarm.

However, the 66-year-old, who lives next to the centre, did not realise it was his and was delayed in going to investigate.

He said: "When I discovered it, I was shocked. If I had gone out as soon as I heard the alarm, I would have caught them red handed."

Unfortunately he did not and the thieves escaped with a Mountfield brush cutter petrol strimmer worth £269, a Flymo maxi trim strimmer worth £95 and two STIH petrol strimmers worth £315 and £475.

There was also £250 of damage caused and a lot more expense to come as the family installed more security measures.

Anyone with information on the raid or is offered the goods should call police on 01268 532212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Tuesday, February 19, 2002