TEN boats at Wimbleball Lake were targeted by thieves during an overnight raid.

Police are investigating the theft of a number of powerboat engines from the beauty spot, near Dulverton, on Exmoor, some time between 10pm on Sunday (August 11) and 5am the following day.

The engines were loaded into the back of a vehicle before being driven away from the site, according to PCSO Supervisor Katherine Williams.

“The financial value of this crime is significant to the trust which manages the site and therefore we are appealing for the public’s help to identify those responsible,” she added.

“Additional patrols are planned in the area and we have provided the trust with advice to help prevent any further crimes from occurring.

“CCTV enquiries have been carried out and we have spoken to people who staying nearby as part of our investigation.

“We know the area is a popular dog walking spot and therefore hope there may have been someone out walking late on Sunday or early on Monday who may have seen something out of the ordinary.”

Anyone with information which could help should call 101 and give reference number 5224211179. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.