A recent spate of burglaries has prompted a police appeal for witnesses, or anyone who has been offered stolen goods, to come forward.

Thieves made failed attempts to access Rendezvous, Upper Crust and Osbournes Coffee Shop at around 2am on Friday, August 21, say officers.

Crooks managed to access I Want, I Need, taking a small amount of cash without causing much damage.

A police spokesman said East Hill Pride and Prospect News were also targeted.

The Herald previously reported how eight businesses around Sidmouth town centre and Salcombe Regis were broken into on Monday, August 17, between the hours of 10pm and 1.30am. Attempts were made on two others.

Officers are following a number of lines of enquiry and reviewing a large amount of CCTV footage of the offenders.

Detective Constable Carly Davies said: “As an investigator, I would always stress the importance of businesses and councils running as much good quality CCTV as they can, and having the staff who know how to operate it.”

At least two male offenders have been caught on camera wearing hooded tops, one dark in colour with white drawstrings, say police.

Last Monday, a number of other premises, mainly in Fore Street, Old Fore Street and Prospect Place were hit by break-ins or attempts.

The offenders attempted to gain entry to a number of commercial premises by forcing open doors with a tool.

Where entry was gained, cash was taken from within.

A briefcase-sized vehicle diagnostic device made by Snap On was stolen from one business.

Police can be contacted by email on 101@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk or by phoning 101, quoting crime reference CR/057698/15.