Tool fairy works magic for theft victim

Fencing contractor Evan Bell is back on the tools much earlier than he expected after thieves robbed him of his livelihood.

Fencing contractor Evan Bell was thrilled that Trade Tools helped him out with new tools after his were stolen. Picture: Contributed

FENCING contractor Evan Bell is back on the tools much earlier than he expected after thieves robbed him of his livelihood.

All of his tools were stolen when locks were broken on his vehicle toolbox while it was parked in front of his Tewantin home on Tuesday night.

Mr Bell was thrilled to get a call from Trade Tools on Saturday morning with an offer he said he could not refuse.

The Nambour and Noosa stores had learned of the theft of Mr Bell's tools after a Sunshine Coast Daily article was published on Saturday highlighting the crippling impact it had on him.

He had expected it would take a year to save up to replace his gear.

Mr Bell initially thought the call would someone saying they were sorry to hear about the loss.

"But they said 'we want to help you out if we can',” Mr Bell said.

"It was a really good price that I couldn't say no to and I basically got half my kit back.”

He was back at work helping a neighbour put up a gate by Saturday afternoon.

"I've been dealing with them (Trade Tools) for more than 10 years and they have always been really good.”

He said getting back to work so soon was a great boost to his recovery from the theft.

"I'm still down (on tools) but it means I can get back quicker.”

Mr Bell said he would upgrade his security, including putting a fence up with a sliding gate at his house.

He said it was sad that it had come to that but he could not endure losing his tools again.

"It's been such a quiet little area but now all of the neighbours are shocked.”