A fundraiser has been launched for an arborist who lost £22,000 worth of equipment when thieves struck at his home.

More than £4,500 has been raised to help Chris Heywood get his business back on its feet after his van was stolen and stripped of equipment.

Chris, 24, from Astley, has run his own business – Heywood Tree Services – since he was just 16 years old, and has worked hard to build up his service.

The thieves stole his van, which was later recovered, along with a woodchipper, tools and other equipment. The total amount stolen adds up to around £22,000.

Chris was also duped into handing over thousands by the thieves who promised the return of the equipment – but never did.

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He said: “I am a proud person. I started the business in a little Peugeot 208 with a hand saw and some ladders. They took everything. I was up driving around the morning after and eventually it was found by a woman who rang me and stayed with the van until I arrived, but it was totally wrecked.

“I got a call from someone who said they had my stuff and would give it back for £3,500. In the state I was in, it seemed like a no-brainer. But when I got there they said they needed more and I couldn’t get my equipment back.

“If you knew me, you’d know how much I loved my job. I just try and give the best service.”

A fundraiser has now been set up and can be found here.

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