PARKED OFF
‘We trusted them,’ drivers fume after wheels stolen off cars left with parking service at major UK airport – costing £2k
The airport says it takes parking 'very seriously'
HOLIDAYMAKERS leaving their cars parked at a major UK airport are being targeted by thieves nicking spare wheels.
Cops say eight reports have been made of wheels being taken from vehicles parked at Gatwick Airport in recent weeks.
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The victims at claim they have have to pay significant amounts to replace the tyres.
One said the spare wheel was taken from the back of their £60k 4x4 - and costed them £2,000 to replace.
Comments online appear to show the thefts have been happening for weeks.
Sarah Breakspear, 42, said the spare wheel from her vehicle was stolen five weeks ago - leaving her and her husband with a £400 bill.
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Sarah, from Weymouth, Dorset, said: "When we returned to our truck, as we were walking towards it we noticed the chain for the spare tyre was hanging down.
"We trusted the Gatwick valet service with the vehicle, got back late at night and just wanted to get home.
"Now we're out of pocket. It put us off from parking there in the future."
She says Gatwick did refund the pair for the missing wheel after she complained online.
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Sussex Police told : "Sussex Police are aware of eight reports of spare wheels being taken from vehicles in car parks near London Gatwick.
"Officers are investigating and anyone with information is asked to report it to Sussex Police online, quoting serial 1294 of 09/02."
A London Gatwick spokesperson said: "We take the security of vehicles parked in our car parks very seriously.
"There are a number of measures in place including barrier controls, number plate recognition cameras and regular security patrols. We are supporting the police investigation into the incidents."
NCP, which runs car parks at Gatwick, has been approached for comment.
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