LAST weekend (May 9 to 11) Crediton Police received a number of reports of night-time thefts in rural locations.

This included a blue Polaris Quad bike and a Brian James Sprint Shuttle trailer from premises in Chawleigh, a black and grey Ford Ranger pick up truck from Eggesford, a Honda agricultural quad bike from Morchard Road, a red Suzuki Quad bike from Coldridge, an aluminium sign in the shape of a cow (4ft x 2ft6") from Witheridge and a gas bottle from Lapford Football Club.

Crediton Police Sgt Gareth Twigg, said: "Over the last year there has been a reduction in offences of this kind in our rural areas.

"Initiatives such as the Local Action Group Rural Burglary Initiative (where free alarms are given to victims of crime to prevent recurrences), the introduction of the Rural Engagement Officer and intelligence led targeted patrols by both uniformed and plain clothed officers has assisted with this. "Local officers also liaise with officers from other police forces, as it is believed that criminals travel into our area to commit offences.

"Extra patrols are being deployed to the affected areas to deter/intercept offenders should they return, as well as providing reassurance to the local community."

Sgt Twigg offered some crime prevention tips:

1. Ensure that valuable equipment is stored in a secure building behind a strong locked door or use a locked metal cage.

2. When not in use, lock doors to barns and outbuildings at all times.

3. Ensure doors and windows are in a good state of repair with locks fitted to groundfloor windows.

4. Installation of security lighting and use of alarms, such as shed alarms.

5. Lock and immobilise vehicles when not in use. Remove keys and store them securely away from vehicles.

6. Visibly mark your machinery and tools - this acts as a deterrent as it is harder for thieves to dispose of items.

7. Keep a list of all machinery/tools/vehicles and a record of all serial numbers and distinguishing marks. This is vital so that if items are located elsewhere their identity and true ownership can be established.

Sgt Twigg added: "We would also ask the public to be diligent and to advise police of any suspicious activity.

"I have been really impressed with information we have received from the public recently, some of which has been particularly helpful.

"This has included registration numbers of suspicious vehicles."

If you can help the police with their inquiries, the non urgent police number is 08452 777444. Local Neighbourhood Police Teams can be contacted via the Neighbourhood Policing website for non urgent matters.

If you have information re crime/criminals you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 - you don't have to give your name.