Police in Herefordshire have arrested a man in Chepstow as part of their investigation into a series of 'bilking' offences that have been going on for over a decade. He has been charged with three counts of theft in Ross, Gwent and Bromsgrove and will appear before Hereford Magistrates Court on May 16th. He has been released on police bail pending further significant enquiries.

The thefts – which are essentially making off with fuel without paying for it – have been committed at many different service stations in the south of the county and the stations targeted include those run by large national corporations and also smaller local businesses.

Speaking about this arrest, Inspector Neil Whitchurch, who is based in Hereford, said: "I can confirm that a 56-year-old man was arrested during the course of the night in the Chepstow area. He has been arrested on suspicion of theft and officers from Herefordshire will be travelling down to Newport to speak to him later today. Searches are being carried out at the man's home address.

"This arrest has come about as a result of information passed on by the public and I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has come forward and offered us information to aid our investigation. I'd also like to thank the press for their support in publicising this case."

Speaking about fuel thefts generally, Inspector Whitchurch continued: "I would like to take this opportunity to ask anyone who has information about fuel thefts of any sort to still come forward with that information. Call us on either 101, or 0300 333 3000. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can also be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.