CREDITON Police have issued a warning to local residents about a rise in the number of motorcycle thefts.

A spokesperson for the police said: “Theft of motorcycles has increased within the Crediton area recently, therefore please remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.”

At about 10pm on Monday, May 30, a motorcycle was stolen from the Bowden Hill area of Crediton and was found set on fire in the town’s Parish Church car park at about 11pm that same evening.

Firefighters from Crediton attended to put out the bike fire.

If you saw anyone with a motorcycle in the Church car park area at about that time, please contact Crediton Police.

In some instances, police say that bikes have been recovered albeit damaged.

If you have any information regarding the bike thefts, then please contact the police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Alan Quick