A THIEF stole a plant hire vehicle - and drove it off after dark without switching the lights on in the hope no one would notice.

A member of the public spotted the Avant 635 being driven along the road and reported the incident to police.

The Avant 635 sign written Commando Plant Hire was taken from South Petherton on Saturday (October 23).

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police Rural Affairs Unit said: "(It was) last seen just before 9pm in Silver Street driving along the road, no lights."

Anyone with any information on its current location or who has seen it should contact police on 101 quoting reference number 5221249219.