WEST Devon Borough Council is appealing for information on criminals who stole a car park pay and display machine.

The machine, which was stolen from the Mill Road car park in Okehampton, was left with just the battery, wires and sharp edges exposed, causing potential safety risks to the public.

The machine contained takings amounting to £800, with the cost of replacement running at an estimated £3,500.

West Devon Borough Councillor Robert Sampson, Lead Member for Commercial Services, said: ’We are working closely with the police to trace and prosecute these criminals. We take such offences very seriously.’

 Anyone with any information can inform the council on 01822 813600 or by emailing [email protected] or alternatively, you can call the police direct and leave information in confidence by dialling 101.