Last week Mower & Saw Services in Colchester was burgled with a number of STIHL items stolen.

If this wasn't enough, once the police and all who were on site left the premises that evening, the suspected intruders then returned and committed arson, leaving the dealership's showroom completely destroyed.

The store owner, Christine Hart, and her team are now facing a complete re-build.

Christine is hoping to reinstate the store's workshop in the near future using a temporary structure within the building so she can continue to service her loyal customers as the surrounding store is re-built.

Christine and STIHL would like to take the opportunity to alert the industry to this issue, asking STIHL dealerships to remain extra vigilant when it comes to security.

Christine says, "As we all know, burglary is a real concern for the trade. Arson is an even graver concern. If you are faced with a burglary, do not leave the property unattended that night. Stay on the
premises and ensure the police are on call. I can only hope that this doesn't happen to any other dealerships."