Three Valleys Water is asking people to watch out for a company-owned Ford Transit van, registration KP02 XGW.

It was stolen on last Wednesday in Uxbridge.

The van has the Three Valleys Water logo and was stolen as the driver was busy securing a mini digger onto an attached trailer.

The van contents included company clothing, tools, equipment and a generator.

The thieves also took the employees' personal possessions, including wallets, mobile phones and company security passes.

Access cards were immediately de-activated but Three Valleys is warning people of the possibility that the thieves may use the van and clothing in distraction burglaries.

Peter Darby, managing director of Three Valleys Water, said:

"We are very concerned that these unscrupulous people may try to gain access to people's houses by masquerading as our employees, and warn all our customers to increase their vigilance."

Three Valleys Water would like to remind customers to be absolutely sure the people who call on them are genuine before opening the door.

The company operates strict rules about employees wearing clearly recognisable uniforms and presenting identity cards when they call.

Always check the photo on the identity card is of the person holding the card.

Three Valleys Water asks that anyone receiving an unexpected call from somebody who claims to be one of its engineers to call on 0845 782 3333 to confirm their identity.

Do not let the caller in and if you still have suspicions call 999.