A MAN has been charged following the theft of a van in Halstead.

Officers with Essex Police arrested a man in Braintree , 27, on Thursday 19 November after reports of a van being stolen.

According to police, the van, which was confirmed to be a Ford Transit, also contained a variety of tools valued at around £1,000.

It was reported stolen from an address on White Horse Avenue in Halstead after being taken in the night from November 12 to 13.

Today the police announced the man, who is originally from Halstead, has been charged with the theft of the van and is currently in custody awaiting a court appearance.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Officers arrested a 27 year old man on suspicion of theft of a Transit van in Halstead.

"The van, which contained a large number of tools was taken overnight last week.

"The man has been charged with theft of the Transit van and he is currently staying with us whilst he waits for his court appearance."