THERE has been an increase in burglaries at public houses, restaurants and small hotels since November, according to Devon and Cornwall Police. PC Angie Frost, crime reduction officer, said the increase in the force?s area had been slight. Some of the burglaries had been detected and offenders charged. But a few were still outstanding and the police believed the suspects may be from outside the area. West Devon has had two burglaries, the latest being this week when an amount of cash was stolen from a public house on the outskirts of Tavistock while it was open for business, so no break-in was attempted. The first, in contrast, had been from a closed public house with security in place. Police ask anyone with this type of business to take extra care when checking security and making sure locks and padlocks are suitable. It is recommended that the storage of large amounts of cash on the premises should be avoided, and when open for business areas not in use should be secure. Doors and windows kept open to help keep staff cool should be closed when rooms are not being used. ?Basic solid security can prevent crime,? PC Frost said. West Devon is still the second safest place to live in the country and WPC Frost said a large proportion of this was down to the public taking police advice and protecting themselves against crime. Any business worried about security can call PC Angie Frost on 01837 658457.
