HEATING oil has become hot property for thieves in the Test Valley.

Police say that spiralling fuel prices are behind a huge increase in thefts involving domestic heating oil, diesel and kerosene.

And with the average price of heating oil at 65p to 68p a litre, the thieves are raking it in.

Storage tanks have been targeted in villages across the Test Valley and since the beginning of the year, nearly 10,000 litres have been stolen in the Romsey area alone.

Thefts have been reported at Awbridge, Braishfield, Crampmoor, East and West Tytherley, Lockerley, West Wellow, Plaitford, Rownhams, Upper Timsbury and West Dean.

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