Exmouth police are appealing for witnesses who saw the culprit who stole a boat’s outboard while the vessel was parked on a busy road.

Officers said the grey 40 horsepower Mariner engine was stolen from a boat overnight between August 3 and 6, while the vessel was parked in Gulliford Nurseries on the main A376 Exmouth road.

The boat’s throttle and controller was also taken, police said.

Police community support officer Sarah Trayhurn said: “Police are appealing for anybody who may have witnessed this theft.

“The A376 is a very busy road and the boat was clearly visible to all passing traffic.”

Contact Exmouth police on 08452 777444, with information, quoting crime reference KE/11/2122.