The police are stepping up patrols along Budleigh Salterton seafront after the new loos were damaged earlier this month.

Officers hope the increased presence will catch the culprit, who caused �500 of damage to the automatic locks on the recently-refurbished Marine Parade toilet block.

Anyone with information about the crime, which took place sometime between August 8 and the following day, is asked to contact PC Simon Evans.

PC Evans said: “Patrols will be increased in the area and anyone with information can contact me, or Crimestoppers.”

Contact the police on 08452 777444, quoting crime reference KE/11/2109, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.