It is thought 4,000 British caravans disappear every year, with owners in the Midlands being hardest hit, according to new research.

AA Caravan Insurance has described the area as the "caravan Bermuda Triangle" as it sees more disappearances each year than any other area in Britain.

The firm said as caravanning is increasing in popularity there are now more vehicles being stolen to order, with larger and luxury models being at the highest risk.

Simon Douglas, head of AA Caravan Insurance, said: "We believe ten per cent more caravans vanish in an area bordered by Leicester, Coventry, Birmingham and Nottingham.

"Three-quarters of those stolen disappear without trace and are never recovered."

He added the thefts are "well thought out criminal plans" with certain sites or models being targeted.

The Lancashire Constabulary recently revealed thefts of caravans in the area totaled £1 million last year, with the force warning that gangs may operate in the area, reports This Is Lancashire.

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