THE OWNER of a food van based in Wrexham is counting the cost after thieves broke in and stole the van's generator.

Charlie's Kitchen, based on the B&Q car park in the town, was broken into shortly before 11pm on Monday by thieves who arrived in a silver pick-up truck.

It saw thieves use what police believe to be bolt cutters to break the lock to the van before they stole its generator.

The business, owned by Leeswood man Andrew Leech, was forced to remain closed on Tuesday morning.

Mr Leech, who has run the business from the B&Q car park for four years, told the Leader: "We're a small family business in the middle of a pandemic and still some people go around doing things like this.

"As well as losing the generator, which cost over £1,200, I've had to buy a new lock and have lost a morning's worth of trading."

Thankfully, Mr Leech had a spare generator which he can use to operate his business while he looks for a new one.

Mr Leech, who also suffered the theft of gas canisters two years ago, said some of his loyal customers have offered to donate money to help cover the cost of getting a new generator.

"That's turned a bad situation into something more positive," he said.

"I'm so grateful for people's support and generosity."

North Wales Police is investigating the theft and anyone with any information, or offered the generator pictured, is urged to call the force on 101 quoting reference number Z080950.