But the overall number of reported crimes in rural areas around Seaton remains low

CRIME figures for rural communities around Seaton remained low last month – although police are concerned about an increase in break-ins.

Overall, there were just 10 reported incidents in the eight communities – an increase of just one on the same period last year.

Local crime hotspot was Colyton where there were five incidents, involving three burglaries and two assaults.

Thieves broke into the grammar School and stole a safe from the office overnight on the 17th and around the same time there was a forced entry at a property in Holyford Lane but nothing was taken. But several items, including jewellery, were stolen when a house at Coly Road was burgled on the 19th.

PC Steve Speariett said: “This month’s crime totals continue to be below the long term average of 20 crimes between 2004 – 2010.

“But we are concerned about the increase in burglaries to outbuildings and two burglaries to residential properties.

“If people see any suspicious vehicles or people please call in with the information using the 999 system when appropriate.”

The number of crimes recorded for January were:

Axmouth: one (criminal damage); Beer: three (criminal damage, thefts); Branscombe: none; Colyton: five; Farway: none; Northleigh: none; Rousdon and Combpyne: one (burglary); Southleigh: none.

Anyone who has any information on any of the crimes is asked to contact Seaton Police Station or call crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.