Raiders lift paving in middle of the night

And the culprits, who are thought to be using an old blue Transit van for transport, could be operating a business with the stolen goods.

Up to 50 channel stones, which run along the side of paths, were stolen from Whitehall Park on Thursday night.

And the tops from gate posts and flag stones were stolen from six other private driveways. A small number of flags were also taken from Bold Venture Park.

One victim Nicola Parkinson, 31, owner of Temple Hair Studio, in Bolton Road said: "They have tried to take some flags but not quite managed it. But they have cracked them in the process. I am worried someone is going to fall over them because some are lifted a bit.

"I will have to fork out £500 now to have them replaced. But it is a bad time of year to get anyone to do the work."

Police have asked householders to be wary of any door-to-door sales calls from workmen offering work on driveways or paths.

Officers are also appealing to people who walk their dogs in parks in Darwen after dark to report anything suspicious.

The thieves, who strike late at night, may wear fluorescent jackets to appear legitimate. Sgt Mark Thackeray-Scott from Darwen police said people should not be put off reporting men in uniform.

He said: "We have had seven reports over the last week of people waking up and part of their drives have gone. Not many flags have been taken from private properties. But 50 were taken from Whitehall Park.

"The thieves have been working either very late at night or in the early hours of the morning. We have reports that they may be wearing fluorescent jackets. And therefore appear to be working legitimately.

"We would urge anyone who has seen any work being carried out at an unusual time. We want people to be vigilant and report anything they see that they think might be suspicious.

"We think they are from the Whitehall or Bolton area with the thefts happening in one area."

Anyone with information should contact Darwen police on 01254 701777.