WEST Devon police were out in force on Sunday morning after the alert Tuckermarsh Neighbourhood Watch spotted a couple of young men apparently trying to burgle a house.
According to residents the two men had made their way to the property from Bere Alston along a closed footpath — risking £5,000 fines.
They were spotted on the path and seen in an alleged attempted break-in at one of the cottages on Tuckermarsh Quay.
The watch team flew into action giving chase to the would-be miscreants and police were called.
Four patrol cars sealed off the peninsula. A dog handler from the MOD and a helicopter were brought in for an area search.
However, the two men escaped.
They are both described as aged between 18 and 20, with short hair.
One was 5ft 8in, the other 6ft 2in. One had a grey top, the other a paler coloured top.
PC Simon Raeburn commended the effort. He said the quick reaction by the watch members had prevented a crime.
Mike Johnson, neighbourhood watch coordinator, said: 'I didn't know the police had so much equipment, it was a really good turnout.'
He said they had felt 'a bit neglected' in the past being tucked out of the way, but were very reassured by the rapid and strong response.
Another resident said practically every house in Tuckermarsh had been burgled during the last couple of years.
'I was amazed at the police response, you couldn't ask for more,' he said.
If anyone has any information please contact Tavistock CID on 0990 777444 or the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.