Hardworking tradespeople across Hertfordshire are being offered free forensic marking kits as part of a new campaign to tackle tool theft and help protect livelihoods.

The initiative, launched by Jonathan Ash-Edwards, will see 1,000 free SelectaDNA kits handed out to residents and tradespeople across the county — enough to mark and protect up to 50,000 tools and pieces of equipment.

The kits contain a special forensic liquid that can be applied to tools and machinery, making them traceable and far more difficult for criminals to sell on if stolen.

Tool theft continues to be a major issue for many tradespeople, with stolen equipment often preventing victims from working, forcing cancellations and causing significant financial strain.

Tradespeople can apply for a free kit online on a first come, first served basis via the PCC's application form.

Jonathan Ash-Edwards said: "Tool theft is not a minor crime. For many victims it means lost income, missed work and real worry about how they will pay the bills.

"That is why I launched our countywide campaign to clamp down on tool theft and better protect hardworking people across Hertfordshire.

"These free DNA marking kits are a practical step people can take right now to make tools less attractive to criminals and easier to recover if stolen."

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A series of roadshows are also being held across Hertfordshire where tradespeople can collect kits and receive crime prevention advice.

Roadshow dates

• Tuesday, May 20 – Borehamwood Screwfix, 7am to 9am
• Thursday, May 22 – Hertford Screwfix, 7am to 9am
• Sunday, June 1 – Hemel Hempstead Selco, 7am to 9am
• Wednesday, June 4 – Hoddesdon Screwfix, 7am to 9am
• Sunday, June 8 – Welwyn Garden City Screwfix, 7am to 9am

The wider campaign will also focus on raising awareness, sharing prevention advice and tackling the resale of stolen tools through markets and online platforms.

Police are also encouraging residents and tradespeople to keep tools securely stored, record serial numbers and photograph valuable equipment, as well as report suspicious activity.