A FLEET manager has developed a chain mail anti-theft bag for company car drivers after his firm suffered a spate of computer thefts from cars.

Nick Welch, fleet manager for Pinnacle Insurance Management, is hoping to sell the Crusader Anti-Theft Bags to fleets which are looking for a new way to combat opportunist thefts from cars, whether parked or on the move.

He said: 'My firm's drivers have had 12 laptops stolen in the past eight months even though we do require the users to pay a contribution towards the replacements.

'I have patented the bag and I am in the process of developing and selling a product that is designed to prevent items such as laptops and briefcases being stolen from company cars by opportunist thieves.'

The bag is designed to be locked to the strong point in the boot of any car. It could also be used in a hotel room or even at home, Welch claims. Currently, it is big enough to hold a laptop bag or briefcase.' The bags will sell for about £199.

Welch added: 'I have spoken to people about my product and I have had positive feedback - it has both the potential to sell and prevent these annoying and expensive thefts.'

Earlier this month, RAC Auto Windscreens unveiled a 'safe sack', to remind drivers to remove valuables from their vehicles. A windscreen sticker supplied with the bag tells criminals that all valuables have been removed.