A well-established Andover business, Russell’s Landscaping & Maintenance Ltd, has vowed to come back “stronger than ever” after suffering the theft of vital tools from its work van.
The van, belonging to company director Benn Russell, was recovered following the incident, but around £11,000 worth of equipment belonging to both Benn and his cousin Bobby was stolen. The pair, who rely on the tools for their livelihoods, admitted the blow was particularly difficult as they had no insurance cover in place.
Despite the setback, the family-run firm has already invested in new tools, thanks in part to the support of local suppliers including Andover Garden Machinery. The company says it will be back out working immediately, continuing to offer hedge cutting, fencing, landscaping, and commercial grounds maintenance services across Hampshire, Wiltshire, and Berkshire.
Speaking after the theft, Benn Russell said he had been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown by friends, customers, and even strangers:
“It’s not nice when you wake up and realise your livelihood’s gone like that. But the amount of support has been truly humbling. People have offered advice, help, even tools to lend—it’s turned a tough situation into a reminder of how amazing people can be.”
The business has also seen an outpouring of encouragement on social media, where Ben thanked supporters and pledged to use the experience as a chance to rebuild and grow.
“Social media can often be a negative place, but this has shown the positive side. We’ve had people reaching out that we haven’t spoken to in years. It really does mean the world.”
Russell’s Landscaping & Maintenance, which boasts five-star reviews across Google and Facebook, is now encouraging customers old and new to get in touch for garden and grounds maintenance work. The company is also offering discounts in return for honest reviews to help strengthen its business profile.
Benn added:
“We’ll turn this negative into a positive. We’re determined to rebuild, to grow the team, and to keep delivering the high-quality service we’re known for. In the words of Peter Crouch—we’ll be back stronger.”
For more information about Russell’s Landscaping & Maintenance Ltd, or to book services, visit their website or social media pages.
Van thefts and break-ins have surged across the UK in recent years, posing a serious threat to small trades and mobile businesses. In 2024 alone, 11,273 vans were reported stolen — an average of 31 vans each day — and only around 39 % of those were ever recovered, according to figures from Direct Line. Over the period since 2016, more than 43,000 vans have been stolen, with a further 117,000 break-ins recorded, equating to a disturbing daily average of 30 van thefts or burglaries.
Locally, Andover has not been exempt from this escalating pattern. Crime data indicate that the town’s overall crime rate is higher than the Hampshire average — in 2023, Andover recorded approximately 102 crimes per 1,000 people, though more recent statistics report about 68 crimes per 1,000, still somewhat above the county mean. Crime Rate UK Moreover, recent monthly crime reports show that vehicle-related offences continue to feature among reported incidents in Andover, reflecting a growing local concern over security for contractors and mobile traders.
