A WORRIED businessman claims car thieves may have brought ruin on his sign writing firm. David Greenhalgh's Nissan Bluebird car was stolen from the car park of the Morrisons superstore in Bolton town centre on Thursday evening. But as well as making off with his car and £50 worth of shopping, the thieves also snatched a portfolio of his work which he says is invaluable.

For the 10 years Mr Greenhalgh has been in business he's taken photographs of his completed signs and artwork which he shows to potential customers.

Now he claims the theft of his portfolio could spell disaster for his business.

Mr Greenhalgh, 51, of Stopes Road, Radcliffe, said: "This could close me down. They can't realise what effect it's had on my business.

"I need the portfolio to show customers different types of artwork which I could do for them. It means they have examples of my work to look at and don't have to try to visualise in their head the signs' appearance.

"Now some customers are asking me what signs would look like but there's no way I can show them. It's like I've got to start from scratch all over again, thinking of the design and colour scheme."

Two ladder racks, worth £200, were also taken during the theft as well as a spare set of expensive sign-writing brushes, each brush costing about £70.

Now Mr Greenhalgh is pleading for the return of his portfolio of work.

He added: "They may have done whatever they wanted to do with the car but I just want the portfolio back.

If anyone can help find Mr Greenhalgh's portfolio they should contact him on 0161 724 6756.

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