THIEVES snuck in to a man’s work van and swiped his car keys before driving across Basildon to steal his motor.

Crooks broke in to the Asda delivery van that Des Smith was driving while he was dropping off a customer’s order in Ayletts, off Luncies Road, Pitsea.

The thieves took his bag then went to the secure car park at the Eastgate Centre in Basildon and stole his Navy blue BMW.

Mr Smith, 25, said: “Obviously they had my keys so they were just able to drive my car away.

“It’s a nightmare. I have reported it to the police. I’d just ask anyone with information to call the police.”

The registration plate on the car is LD60 UMB Anyone with infomation should call Essex Police on 101.