Reported crime in Ottery rose in February with criminal damage, thefts and assaults among the total.

PCSO Maria Clapp told the town council that officers recorded 20 offences compared to 13 for the same month last year – taking the yearly total to 234.

In her report, PCSO Clapp told councillors that two assaults occurred last month, with inquiries ongoing into an incident caught on CCTV outside Sainsbury’s.

Officers recorded mobile and internet incidents, including blackmail in regards to photographs, and two separate incidents of items being taken from bedrooms.

The meeting heard a boy had been banned from the youth centre after criminal damage was caused to cars.

She said a man was being interviewed after eight hot water cylinders were taken from the aquatic centre.

Thefts also occurred at a building site, where 60 lead cavity trays were stolen, and at the recycling centre, where clothes and a gas canister were taken.

A horse rider had also contacted police with concerns of dogs not being kept under control in East Hill.