Howdens said the text message, which is understood to have been sent out to other staff members at their Worksop depot, did not align with their ‘values as a business’.
It read: “***TRAVELLERS AT WORKSOP*** Please be advised that our travelling friends have returned once again and so please be cauitious if you are visiting the depot – do not leave your van unlocked or unattended”.
A spokesperson for Howdens said: “Howdens would like to apologise unreservedly for any offence caused by a text message sent by a member of staff at its Worksop depot.
"The message was not approved, and its content was unacceptable and wholly at odds with our values as a business.
"We are investigating the matter internally as a matter of urgency and appropriate action will be taken.