CREDITON Police says it is aware of the recent thefts of charity boxes from local stores within the community.

The Police said it would like to reassure the public that enquiries are ongoing in order to identify the offender.

It added: “We understand that this is distressing for many local residents and we endeavour to identify and manage the person responsible.

“We have visited the businesses of which have reported being a victim of crime and offered reassurance and safety advice.

“Police would like to thank members of the community who are assisting with ongoing enquiries.

“If there is further information of which is relevant to our enquiries please email the following: [email protected] .”

A DEVON Air Ambulance charity donation box was stolen from the Crediton Devon Air Ambulance charity shop on Tuesday, July 1.

The incident happened at about 1.53pm and there is good CCTV of the person believed to be responsible.The man police would like to speak to is believed to be about 40 years of age and was wearing a straw hat, face mask and dark glasses, black jacket, khaki-coloured trousers and blue trainers.

He was also wearing dark sunglasses and had a rucksack on his back.

Local people are asked to get in touch if they found a discarded charity collection box.

The man was also reported to have visited a number of other shops in the town and was last seen at a bus stop.

If you can help the police, please use the 101 number. The crime reference is 50250169655.

On Tuesday. July 15, the same man targeted the Refurnish Shop in Mill Street and stole a tips jar. It was later found emptied in Morrisons car park.

Earlier that day the same man tried to steal the charity collection box in the Crediton High Street Creedy Centre and was seen on CCTV trying to unscrew the security chain which was fixed to the wall.

That day he was also watched in other shops acting suspiciously.

Previously he has targeted Tesco and Morrisons and some other businesses.

The same man has also stolen charity collection boxes from shops and businesses in Okehampton.