THIEVES are again targeting cars in West Devon and police are asking for help. A blue Toyota had its window smashed while parked between Mary Tavy and Brentor overnight, Tuesday January 12 and Wednesday January 13. A grey Garmin SatNav and a Fuji camera were among the items stolen. During the same period and on the same stretch of road, a Seat had its door forced open. A TomTom SatNav was stolen along with a striped mug with lid.

A Mercedes van was attacked in Lydford but no items were stolen, and a van parked in a field gateway near Brentor had its door forced open and a number of power tools stolen.

A VW people carrier was targeted on the Princetown Road at Dousland. A window was smashed but nothing was taken, although it appears the thieves then vandalised the car.

A car had its window smashed on Wednesday night, January 13, while parked outside the Dartmoor Inn on the B3357. It is thought these crimes may be linked to the mixture of damage and theft offences experienced recently when cars were abandoned in severe weather.

Sgt Dave Anning said: 'Statistically this sort of offence is likely to be committed by a car containing several young men. They are offending at night in isolated locations so the chances of catching them in the act are slim. Please call us if you see such a vehicle hanging around other vehicles, or if you have an idea who is responsible.'

JT/10/27, 28, 29, 36, 50.

l A blue Renault Clio Sport was damaged overnight between 9.40pm, January 16 and 1.50pm, January 17, while parked in West Street.

Offensive words were gouged into the bonnet in 12 inch letters. Anyone with any knowledge of who may be responsible, please contact PC Bob Bone at Tavistock Police Station or Crime Stoppers. JT/10/47

l A thief entered a shed at a local quarry and took around 200 kilograms of lead, between 4pm on Saturday January 16 and 7am on Monday January 18. Anyone with information should contact PC Prouse. JT/10/48

l A house window was smashed in Buctor Park on Sunday January 17 at around 6.40pm, and caused the outer pane of a double-glazed window to break. The noise was heard in surrounding houses but no-one was seen. JT/10/49

* In emergencies, when life is threatened or when a criminal is still in the area, call the police by dialling 999 or 112.

* Crimes and incidents of a less urgent nature should be reported through the central enquiry desk on 08452 777444.

* Crimestoppers Freephone 0800 555111. People passing information are guaranteed complete confidentiality.

* West Devon Victim Support Scheme can be contacted on 01626 357586.