Exclusive by Alan Quick

BOTH Crediton Parish Church and Crediton Bowling Club sustained serious damage during break-ins during the early hours of this morning, Thursday, June 29.

During both instances, it is believed that windows were smashed to gain entry.

A spokesman for Crediton Parish Church said: “At this time we are unsure if or what has been taken but a lot of cupboards and rooms were broken into and there was an attempt to gain access to another by ripping up floorboards.

“Quite a lot of damage has been caused and it will probably mean we will have to make an insurance claim.”

Police forensic staff visited the church during the morning and church representatives and police officers were looking at the recently-upgraded CCTV installed at the church.

The spokesman said that images could be seen of a man in the church.

The Parish Church is expected to remain closed for the rest of the day.

Windows were smashed to the changing rooms at each end of Crediton Bowling Club.

Bags were rifled and some items were believed to have been taken.

The break-ins follow a break-in to a Crediton shop premises during the early hours of Tuesday morning and break-ins at about the same time to two churches in Exeter.

If you can help the police with their inquiries, please telephone 101 or email: [email protected] .

You can also pass on information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.