THE council has stepped up security at a plant nursery where thieves stole items worth tens of thousands of pounds.

The culprits got away with two vehicles, a large quantity of power tools and machinery during the raid at Taunton Deane Nurseries.

They then returned later on to steal more items, including cash and a mobile phone from the premises in Stoke Road, Taunton.

It is believed the thieves got onto the site through a hedge at the nurseries, which supply plants to brighten up the area's streets during the summer months.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the overnight burglary on Monday (August 26) between 1am and 3am.

They loaded the items onto a white Ford Ranger pick-up truck, which was later found abandoned in the car park at Ruishton Village Hall at 6.05pm the same day.

A hire vehicle left in the nursery grounds was also stolen during the hour-long raid.

Cllr Richard Lees, whose portfolio at Somerset West and Taunton Council covers the nursery, said: "We're insured and the matter is now in police hands.

"We've stepped up security at the site."

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesman said: "We’re keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time who may have information to help our investigation.

"If you can help, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5219196402."

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111 or via the charity's anonymous online form.