Farmers and landowners in the Sidmouth area are being warned to be vigilant after after eight rural thefts are reported in just 10 days.

Over the last 10 days Devon and Cornwall Police have had eight rural crimes reported, where plant equipment, livestock trailers, diggers, and machinery have been stolen.

The locations so far have been Honiton, Hemyock, Crediton, Exeter, Colyton, Culmstock, Puddington and Axminster but Devon and Cornwall Police believe the culprits may also be working in the Sidmouth area.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Please be vigilant, lock and secure all farm and plant machinery and consider all forms of security. Every form of security creates another barrier - don't give them an easy opportunity to steal your property.

"If you see any suspicious people or vehicles please take the registration, description, time and date and contact police."

Contact 999 in an emergency, 101 in a non-emergency or email [email protected] .