Exmouth police are urging boat owners to lock their equipment because marine theft has increased in the area.

Police are warning boat owners to lock up equipment or face having it stolen.

The message comes following a spate of marine thefts, including boats, over the past few weeks.

In a bid to clampdown on boat crime, Devon and Cornwall police is offering advice on property marking and free registration of possessions.

PCSO Colin Balch is urging people to mark their property to help safeguard it from thieves.

He said: “We are seeing an increase in marine thefts from the Shelly Beach, Exmouth Sailing Club and surrounding area.

“There has been an increase in marine item thefts, including boats, over the past few weeks and Devon and Cornwall police would like to remind all owners that they need to be aware the any insecure items left onboard unattended vessels could be stolen.

“We advise that if owners leave their boats moored and unattended - especially if they are further out in the estuary - that all non-fixed items such as fuel tanks , chart plotters, electronics, flare packs and safety equipment are removed, and secure outboard engines using transom locks.

“At the very least items should be property marked and serial numbers recorded and registered.”

• For advice on property marking visit www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/marking.

Register your equipment on the free property register site at www.immobilise.com