AVON and Somerset Police are appealing to the local community for help following a spate of thefts across West Somerset and the Bridgwater area.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas there were a number of thefts from vehicles parked in Williton, Minehead, Puriton and other areas.

There were also a number of sheds and outbuildings broken into in the rural areas surrounding Williton and Minehead.

Police say they want the local community to inform them if they have been or are offered chainsaws, strimmers or other petrol-driven or power tools.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesman said: "We put a targeted patrol plan in place at key times in specific areas in order to deter the offenders and prevent further offences.

"Our PCSO’s also took the time to visit all the victims to offer support reassurance and crime prevention advice.

"Work was done locally to ensure all members of the community report all offences or suspicious activity to us to help us with our targeted patrols and a problem solving plan was put in place to identify potential offenders and any suspect vehicles in an attempt to prevent further offences."

Two male teenagers – aged 18 and 15 - have been arrested as a result of police enquiries. They were arrested on suspicion of theft of a vehicle and have been released under investigation.

Police enquiries are continuing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 5218/270252 or 5218/278338.