TWO businesses and a van have been targeted after a series of break-ins and a theft.

Police have launched an investigation into the incidents, which took place last Wednesday (May 23) and Thursday (May 24).

The first incident took place between 2.30am and 2.50am on the Wednesday when a business premises on the A198/Longniddry Road, between Meadowmill and Seton Mains, was broken into by three men who caused about £1,700 worth of damage.

Less than half an hour later, another business was targeted.

Between 3am and 3.25am, an attempt was made to break-in to Highland Plant Hire at Seton Mains Garage, near Longniddry.

Four males arrived at the premises in a car, possibly a silver Vauxhall Corsa with black alloys, and three attempted to get into the premises.

They were unsuccessful and left a short time later.

The third incident took place on West Barns' Stenton Road between 11am and 12.15pm on May 24.

A blue Ford Transit van, containing tools, was stolen and may have been seen on the A1 just west of the Thistly Cross Roundabout, heading towards Edinburgh, at about 12.10pm.

The van had the registration number SL17 AAV and signage which read 'C&G DEVELOPMENTS' but these may since have been removed or replaced.

Inspector Andrew Harborow, of Tranent Police Station, said: "An investigation is currently underway into these incidents, which are being treated as linked, and we're asking for the public's help as part of this.

"Anyone who may have seen a suspicious behaviour or suspicious vehicles in the areas at these times, who may have seen or know the whereabouts of the stolen van, is urged to contact us as soon as possible."

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1119/23 for the premises on the A198/Longniddry Road, 1342/23 for Highland Plant Hire or 1596/24 for the theft in Stenton Road.

Alternatively, information can be reported anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.