Villains take a summer holiday as crime rate hits zero for the first time since at least 2004

Colyton has had a crime-free August – for the first time in at least eight years.

Police say there were no recorded incidents in the town last month and have praised residents for their support.

They are especially pleased as Colyton is usually the comparative “crime hotspot” in the Seaton rural policing division.

Community beat officer PC Steve Speariett said for the town to record its first crime free month since at least 2004 was commendable

“ I would like to personally thank the community and youth of Colyton in making this achievement, especially as it falls in the Summer holiday which traditionally tends to be a busy month,” he said.

In total eight crimes were reported last month compared to 15 in 2011 – a decrease of 47 per cent.

Amongst the incidents were two thefts at Axmouth – an outboard engine and fishing equipment were removed from a boat moored in the river and property was stolen

from an Audi TT parked in the layby on the Axmouth Straight.

There were also two burglaries at Rousdon and Combpyne where tools and gardening equipment were stolen.

Added PC Speariett said “For the 14th consecutive month crime continues to be below the long term average.

“There were two sheds broken into at Combpyne where the thieves targeted power tools, we would remind owners to record make/model numbers of any equipment and to mark any valuable property with your postcode. If you do see any suspicious people or vehicles please report it at the time using 999 when appropriate.”

Anyone with information on any of the crimes is asked to get in touch with Seaton Police Station on 101, by e-mail at seaton@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk or by callingcrimestoppers on 0800 555 111.