A 32-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested after a Royal Mail van was stolen.

The red Ford Transit van, registration LC05 LUR, was taken from outside shops in Birchington Avenue, Grangetown, Middlesbrough, at around 12.30pm yesterday.

It was later found abandoned in Pallister Court, in Middlesbrough at around 1pm, with some of its contents missing.

The Middlesbrough man arrested is currently helping police with their enquiries.

Witnesses are asked to contact DC Steve Theaker, at Redcar and Cleveland CID, on 01642-302626.