Firkin’s van and all his own tools worth an estimated £32,000, were taken from his driveway, not three feet from this front door, six weeks ago. Neither the van or any tools have yet to be recovered.

Appearing on this week’s Carpentry Show, hosted by Robin Clevett, Firkins told of the devastating effect of the crime.

“I was out all night looking for the van – I was nearly in tears. It really, really put me down to my knees. I just didn’t know what to do, where to turn, who to speak too. I was just at a loss,” said Firkin on the show.

“But you can’t give up, you have to keep moving. You have to get back to work, you have to go buy more tools, you have to replace the van, because you have a family to support, a roof to keep over your head. But mentally… it is quite disturbing,” he added.

Since the theft, Firkins has managed to get another van and gather enough tools to start work again. However, the cost of replacing his van, tools and upgrading the security at his home has been “huge”.

“I am in debt now, just to go back to work. That debt is going to take me ten to fifteen years to pay off,” Firkins explained.

Given his own experience, he is keen to raise awareness to the devastating impact that tool theft has on tradespeople. “I just want to make people aware. Be mindful of you van. You don’t want to go through this,” he warned.

To complete the petition please follow this link.

To hear Marc Firkins’ full story please click below.