Cornwall boat owners urged to deter theft
Boat owners in Cornwall are being reminded to register their vessels with police to reduce the number of thefts.
Officers can then check the ownership details of anyone acting suspiciously.
Officers say the Boatwatch scheme, launched in 2009, has led to a 40% reduction in boat thefts in the Falmouth area.
There are other Boatwatch schemes in the Polruan area of the River Fowey, Truro, Looe and Lerryn.
Stolen outboard motors can fetch up to £10,000, but the Devon and Cornwall force has been marking equipment and providing covers to help boat owners protect their engines.
Boatwatch teams liaise with local harbour masters and boat owners' associations and carry out routine patrols.
People who own or use boats and local residents over the age of 18 can volunteer.