THE driver of a scooter who was nearly hit by a getaway vehicle lis being urged to come forward.

Between 11.50pm on Monday, November 12 and 12.10am on Tuesday, November 13 a van was broken in to as it was parked in Orkney Close, Popley, Basingstoke.

The offender or offenders smashed a window to gain access to the van and stole the victim's work tools valued at £1300. They then made off in a dark coloured Ford Escort-style vehicle which had been parked up in a lay-by on the A33, north-bound, opposite the Go Outdoors store.

A witness saw the vehicle nearly hit a scooter as it was driven off.

One of the men police want to speak to is described as white, in his late 20s, of medium build, 5ft 10ins, wearing a dark Umbro top with collar, dark trousers and a rucksack. He had short, dark hair, with a fringe.

PC Aidan Jeffery, said: “As the vehicle made off from the scene, the rider of a scooter had to take evasive action to avoid the vehicle. Were you the rider of that scooter? Did you see the registration of the vehicle or did you see those in the vehicle? I would urge this person to come forward and speak to us as they may have vital information.”

He said tools and valuables should be removed from vehicles left unattended.

Anyone with any information should contact PC Jeffery at Basingstoke police station on 101, or call the Crimestoppers charity, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.