THIEVES have forced their way into at least three sheds near Murchington, Chagford and another in Chagford itself in the last fortnight.

The thieves damaged a padlock in the process and stole two chainsaws — one made by Stihl — a strimmer, a hot air blower made by Stihl, a fuel can and drills. The break-ins are believed to have happened overnight on November 29/30.

Police are giving a timely reminder that outbuildings are targeted all year round, not just in the spring and summer. Some of the property was recovered nearby and police said some of the circumstances suggest that the offenders are very local and have targeted the same area before.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting crime reference number CR/84665/16.