Booze and cash taken in ferry smash-and-grab

POLICE in Brixham are investigating a spate of 'smash and grab' burglaries, including one on the historic Fairmile passenger ferry.

Up to four premises have been raided for booze, including the Torquay to Brixham passenger ferry which was broken into on Wednesday around midnight.

The striking 120-foot ferry, formerly the Western Lady III, was raided as it was moored in the harbour under the coastguard station.

Thieves bashed in doors and took £350 of alcohol along with £80 cash.

The break-in was discovered on Thursday afternoon.

Will Ford, owner of Greenway Ferry which owns the Fairmile, said: "They smashed through almost every door on the boat and ransacked it.

"They took all the cash from the till. There is more than £1,000 of damage.

"It was only last year we spent a lot of money refurbishing it. It's a great shame because it is a heritage boat. We just hope CCTV can track down who did it."

Premises including Costcutter in Pillar Avenue, the Breakwater Cafe and Spar, Drew Street, have fallen victim to similar incidents.

PC Tim Perrin, based at Brixham police station, is investigating.

He said: "There has been a number of these incidents recently.

"They are all smash-and-grab type incidents where a brick or rock is used to break in and the offenders run and steal alcohol.

"Quite a large quantity of alcohol is being stolen, which is unusual.

"We would appeal for any witnesses who may have seen anything to come forward as our inquiries are on-going."

Police have appealed for witnesses.

Two men have been charged with burglary and will appear at South Devon Magistrates Court on February 18.