The owner of a classic car stolen from Ottery ‘just wants someone to get caught’ after his prized possession was found burned out more than 60 miles away.

Sidmouth Herald: The 1968 MKII Austin Mini Cooper was stolen at some point between May 29 and May 30.The 1968 MKII Austin Mini Cooper was stolen at some point between May 29 and May 30. (Image: Archant)

Reuben Millard, 44, had owned the 1968 Austin Mini Cooper for more than seven years before it was taken from Victoria Terrace car park last Thursday (May 29).

Despite an online appeal, which was shared by some 700 Facebook and Twitter users across the country, the car was discovered in flames 24 hours later in Frome, Somerset.

“It’s sad to think it was around for more than 40 years then someone just torched it,” said Reuben. “It wasn’t mint condition, but it wasn’t far off.”

“I was worried if I posted details online, whoever had taken it would see it and get rid of it, but I was willing to try anything.”

“It was out there 24 hours before they burnt it. It is a distinctive car, so hopefully someone remembers something.”

The Victoria Terrace resident said his car was probably worth between £7,500 and £8,000, and had been restored over two years by its previous owner.

“I just really hope that someone gets caught for it,” he added.

Officers are now appealing for anyone who may have seen the car in the area during the 24 hours after it was stolen.

They are particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have seen it being driven between Ottery and Somerset any time between Thursday (May 29) evening and the early hours of Saturday.

A police spokesman said: “This is heartbreaking for the owner as this car was his pride and joy.

“It was a fairly rare and distinctive vehicle and easy to spot.

“We would ask anyone who may have seen it or came into contact with the car to get in touch with police.”

The car was white in colour with black wheels and a black roof, had distinctive red and black bucket seats and carried the registration mark NDV 919G.

Anyone with information can call police on 101, or anonymously Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 ref CR/077172/14.