THIEVES have stolen a fishing boat from a boat park at the Cobb in Lyme Regis.

The Sahara, a 17ft dory, was stolen along with its 50hp Honda engine on its trailer.

It was taken from the West Dorset District Council yard behind the harbourmaster’s office over the past fortnight.

Police have appealed for witnesses.

The trailer had a wheel clamp fitted and was chained up.

The boat is white above the waterline and pale blue below with the name written in red.

A silver cover over the vessel was also taken with it.

The thieves would have needed to cut the chain and remove the wheel clamp to steal the boat and its trailer.

Police are urging boat owners to remove valuable items from their boats when not in regular use.

A spokesman said: “Please consider using a property marking system such as Selecta DNA Marine. If possible remove engines from stored vessels.

“Use high quality toughened chains and remove trailer wheels or employ other immobilisation methods.”

Witnesses and anyone with information are urged to call the police on 101.