AN appeal for information has been issued following two unusual thefts in Devon and East Cornwall.

The first incident involves an historic 18th century milestone which was situated between Tavistock and Dartmeet.

It was reported as missing at the start of April and investigations into its whereabouts were undertaken by the Dartmoor National Park Authority, which concluded the milestone had been stolen.

The stone stood on the north side of the B3357 between Huccaby and Dunnabridge at SX 652741 and was inscribed Ashburton 9 miles and Tavistock 11 miles. 

Tim Jenkinson, the county representative of the Milestone Society in Devon, said he last saw it on March 14.

He said: 'The milestone dates from the late 18th century when the Tavistock Turnpike Trust built the road as far as Dartmeet on the way to Ashburton.

'The unofficial removal of milestones from the roadside is a criminal offence under the Highways Act of 1980 and this particular marker has been microchipped by Dartmoor National Park Authority in order to assist with its detection.

'The loss of this particular stone is regrettable because there was a complete run of stones intact on this road from Tavistock as far as Dartmeet.'

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of the stone should contact the DNPA at Parke.

And an appeal has been launched by the Tamar Valley Donkey Park at St Ann's Chapel after one of its signs was stolen from the roadside overnight on Monday, May 11.

The metal sign, which is 3ft square, has pictures of the park's donkeys, 'The Tamar Valley Donkey Park' and their website details printed on it.

Owner of the park David Gibbons said: 'We just don't know who would do such a thing. We have three of these signs placed carefully to show people the way.

'This year is our tenth anniversary, and these signs were made for us when we first took over the park. Taking one means we will have to replace all three, something that we just can't afford at the moment.

'We are not a charity, our animals and donkeys rely totally on entrance fees and donations. We would appeal to anyone who can help us retrieve the sign, to bring it back.'

The Tamar Valley Donkey Park can be contacted on 01822 834072 or by emailing http://www.donkeypark.com">www.donkeypark.com

Anyone with information can also call Callington Police Station on 08452 777444 and quote crime reference number BN/09/323.