North Yorkshire Police are appealing for information after thieves stole – and subsequently crashed – a Swift Continental caravan before fleeing at around 11pm on Friday 3rd May near Stokesley.

The incident highlights the importance of safeguarding our tourers, with accessories such as the best caravan hitch locks and the best caravan wheel locks typically turned to. In this instance, a black BMW 3-Series with the fake numberplate YG56 ZLK was used to tow the tourer. It was hitched up to the Swift Continental in a field at Ingleby Greenhow, before being “driven through Great Broughton and along the B1257 towards Stokesley”. The driver then lost control and hit a telegraph pole before the thieves fled.

The road subsequently had to be closed for a short period of time, so the car and caravan, which were both damaged, could be recovered.

North Yorkshire Police are now appealing to the public for help with their investigation, asking anyone with CCTV or dash cam footage of the route between Ingleby Greenhow and Stokesley from between 11pm and midnight on Friday 3rd May to come forward. Anyone who saw something suspicious or who has further information is also being asked to get in touch.

Information can be passed over by emailing [email protected] or by anonymously contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website, and to quote reference 12240077876.

Take a look at our guide to caravan security for more help and guidance on protecting your van too.

Image: North Yorkshire Police


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