But after returning to his van, he realised his door was open and that someone had stolen his goods.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has since released an appeal with a CCTV image of who they wish to speak to in connection with the incident, but no arrests have yet been made.

John, 28, said: “I had been out in the morning to do some shopping and had to go to the airport later on, and then went to see someone.

“I was sat inside a building and if I had looked out, I would have seen it happen, but I did not because you do not expect it to happen in broad daylight. It looked like a pro because he seemed to know exactly what he was doing.”

CCTV footage from 9.10am in the morning shows two men in a car, with one man leaving it and attempting to open the van door.

He tries again and opens the door while shielded by the getaway car and then the man is seen going into the van.

A GMP spokesperson said: “Officers are investigating a theft from the vehicle from a car park on Arthur Lane, Bolton. This man is believed to be responsible for multiple thefts from motor vehicles in Harwood.

“Officers are appealing to anyone with relevant information and are keen to speak to the man in the picture.”

John has now been left more than £1,000 out of pocket after the tools were taken and is now investing in more security.

He added: “I am aggravated because you work hard for a long time, and they just come and take it from you.

"And I know they would not even use the tools- they sell them for £10 or something but in my job, it’s very valuable to me.”