A spate of thefts and burglaries at camp sites across the Burnham-On-Sea and Brean area has this week prompted police to issue an appeal for the public’s help.
PC Esther Robinson told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We have suffered a lot of damage and some thefts and burglaries to awnings on many campsites across the area in the last couple of days. The offences are occurring between 11pm and 4am.”
“Unfortunately, we have very little information coming forward to help us progress with the crimes and lead us to any suspects.”
“If anyone is seen on any of the sites in the early hours in dark clothing acting suspiciously please notify staff security immediately.”
“If there is no security on site then please do not hesitate to report to local police via 0845 4567000 or 999 if seen committing crime.”
The suspect is described as a tall white male, aged in his mid to late 20’s, with dark hair and wearing dark clothing with a white logo on the front of the top.
“The most identifiable factor is that he is alleged to have a harelip. We have no idea if he was acting alone or with others, if he is local or a tourist, although it is more than likely the latter.”
There have been more than 50 recorded offences. The first happened at Diamond Farm on Sunday August 10th. Sites at Unity Farm, Warren Farm and Sunnyside Cottage were targeted the following day, Monday August 11th.
Most of the thefts have happened overnight, between 11pm and 4am. Money, mobile phones, clothing and camping equipment are among the items stolen.
Inspector Sam Williams from Burnham-On-Sea said: “Such a spate of offences has a massive impact on our communities, both resident and visiting, and is greatly upsetting for both them and us as an Organisation. All of these crimes are being investigated within our Criminal Investigation Department, supported by all our staff working at Burnham-on-Sea. Such a spate will not be tolerated by us or our communities and we are using the most skilled, technical and experienced level of investigative resources to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
“We’ll also be stepping up our patrols and presence in the area both with uniformed and plain clothes staff, based locally and from across our force area. Similarly we are working closely with the holiday parks, who equally are all increasing their own levels of security.”
“This crime spate is exceptional and is by no means common. This remains a safe and friendly place to holiday and we’re determined for it to stay this way, and will not allow that to be ruined by a few individuals.”
Police are asking holidaymakers to ensure that they do not leave any valuables unattended and to report all suspicious activity immediately.
