COPS investigating the attempted theft of a £4,000 generator from a tool hire shop have released a CCTV video of the incident.

At about 12.30pm on Tuesday two men parked a white Ford Transit van in an alleyway behind Brandon Tool Hire in Writtle Road, Chelmsford.

They then tried to take a generator stored on a trolley to their vehicle but were spotted by a passer-by and promptly drove off without the device.

As police continue their investigations, officers have uploaded surveillance camera video of the attempted theft taking place.

Still images of the two suspects have also been released.

A warning has also been put out by officers advising shops not to leave goods lying around unguarded.

Pc Rob Bentley said: "We want to warn other firms in the area, particularly tool hire shops, to be vigilant about security in yards that can be accessed by the public."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Pc Bentley at the Chelmsford Neighbourhood Crime Team on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.