A spate of car thefts have taken place in Topsham but overall crime rates drop

A NUMBER of car accessories were stolen from a red Peugeot 106 which was parked in Topsham.

The theft took place between 2am and 6am on Friday, July 23. Entry was gained to the car by smashing a rear window.

Anyone with information about the incident should call the police on 08452 777444, quoting the crime reference number DE/10/7558.

A blue Apollo boys’ bike was stolen from Topsham rugby fields on Saturday, July 24, at around 2.30pm. Anybody who may have information about the theft should call the police quoting crime reference number DE/10/7817.

Richard Shelton, police community support officer, said: “Obviously, PC Wetherell and myself are concerned at the sudden increase in thefts in the Topsham area.

“We would ask all residents to be vigilant, to make sure that their belongings and valuables are stored securely and to contact us immediately if they see persons acting suspiciously in the area.”

Garden ornaments worth approximately �30 were taken from a property in Victoria Road overnight between Friday, July 30 and Saturday, July 31.

An iron garden planter was among the items. Anyone who may have seen something suspicious taking place, should call the police quoting crime reference number DE/10/7850.

Meanwhile, latest police statistics have revealed the level of crime in Topsham and Countess Wear has dropped.

The average number of incidents, based on crimes for April, May and June, has fallen by nearly six per cent compared to the same period 12 months ago.

In the previous three months, crimes had jumped by more than 10 per cent compared with 2009. The Devon and Cornwall police figures are calculated on a quarterly basis.

The drop comes despite a spate of burglaries last May when more than �1,000-worth of damage was caused as well as cash and jewellery taken from a property in Newcourt Road.

Both Weekes Estate Agents and Devonshire Mortgage Consultants, in Fore Street, were also broken into.

There was a total of nine burglaries in the area in April, May and June.

The level of vehicle crime has increased by 11 per cent, as have reports of anti-social behaviour.

The police are holding a street briefing outside Matthews Hall next week.

Held on Saturday, August 14, at 2pm, the briefing is an opportunity for people to discuss any issue they may have concerns about, such as troublemakers causing problems in their neighbourhood.