A LARGE quantity of parcels and packages were stolen during Friday’s rush-hour after a Royal Mail van was targeted in Poole.

The van was driven away while its driver was emptying a nearby post box.

It was found later, following a search involving the police helicopter, dumped at Bourne Valley Business Park, off Yarmouth Road.

Most of the packages, some bagged in grey, blue and green Royal Mail sacks were stolen.

The van was taken from Wolterton Road, Poole, around 5.30pm. Police say the postal worker did not see who swiped the vehicle.

A Dorset Police spokesman confirmed at “large quantity of parcels and packages” were taken.

Police Constable Tim Gooding, of Poole police, said: “I am keen to speak to anyone who saw a Royal Mail van in strange circumstances during the evening rush-hour on Friday.

“In particular I would like to speak to anyone who saw the vehicle being unloaded around Yarmouth Road or Bourne Valley Road in Poole.

“I would also like to know if anyone has seen discarded post bags, parcels and packages.”