A self-employed plumber has lost his business after thieves made off with £3,000 worth of tools.

Michael McClusky, 50, was visiting his parents in Elsenham Street, Southfields, on October 19, when two men broke into his van.

CCTV footage, taken from his brother's shop nearby in Revelstoke Road, was provided to police which shows the two men executing the theft, but despite this evidence police dropped the case within 24 hours, claiming the film was insufficient to pursue legal action.

An email sent to Mr McClusky said: "Once again I am sorry that you have become a victim of crime. I would like to re-emphasise that the specific investigation into your crime is now closed."

The CCTV images show one man breaking into the front of the van, while another waits in a car.

A passer-by can also be seen when he first breaks into the van.

Mr McClusky, of Burnham Drive, Worcester Park, built the tool collection up since 1980 and says the loss means he can no longer run his business McCluskey Plumbing and Heating.

He said: "Obviously I am not happy about it, it is not good enough. I am so fed-up with the police.

"Their attitude is they won't bother if you've got the insurance, I haven't got £3,000 worth of insurance.

"I'm not going to get my tools back but I do want to get this person. I'm going to prosecute them if I can. I'm fed up to the back teeth."

A spokesperson for the police said: "An allegation of theft of tools from a parked van in Elsenham Street SW18 was made to police on October 19.

"CCTV footage of the incident was viewed by officers but unfortunately this was not of sufficient quality to identify the suspects or the vehicle they used.

"Details of the offence are maintained on the police system should any further evidence come to light which may identify the offenders."