A stolen delivery van containing GCSE and A-level exam papers has been found in Aldenham.

The unmarked Parcelforce van was taken from Paynesfield Road, Bushey Heath, on Tuesday, April 15, when staff left the keys in the ignition to make a delivery.

The van was found the following day in Aldenham after a member of the public rang police to say it had been left unlocked for 24 hours.

A number of parcels were recovered from the top of Barnet Lane, Borehamwood, and a further parcel was left outside Borehamwood Police Station.

This week the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA) examinations board said they will be re-setting exams following worries that the missing papers could be circulated amongst students.

An AQA spokesman said: "Incidents like this are extremely rare. Protecting the integrity of our examinations is in the interests of all candidates taking those examinations, who are our paramount concerns.

"Senior staff at AQA conducted an immediate assessment of the situation and as a result of this investigation a decision was taken to replace papers nationally."

A Hertfordshire Constabulary spokesman said: "We can confirm that a white Renault panel style delivery van was stolen from Paynesfield Road, Bushey Heath, at around 3.40pm on April 15.

"Witnesses saw a white male get into the driver's seat of the van and drive off along Paynesfield Road in the direction of Elstree Road.

"Hertfordshire Constabulary are investigating the theft of the motor vehicle and enquiries continue. If anyone has any information about this crime, please call 0845 33 00 222 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."