TWO men have been identified by police as those responsible for a spate of burglaries and thefts in the villages surrounding Wellington.

One has been arrested and another is actively being sought.

Avon and Somerset Police are still searching for the owners of a leaf blower and chainsaw that were allegedly taken during a theft and the burglary spree in the area.

Back in February, Nynehead Parish Council discussed reports of two burglaries and two thefts which took place in Oake, Bradford-on-Tone, Langford Budville and Nynehead in their regular monthly meeting.

After police stepped up their foot and mobile patrols in the affected areas, they discovered there were actually 14 related incidents.

It is believed the two males responsible broke into a number of sheds and stables in the villages named.

At the time of the first burglaries and thefts in February, police shared advice on how to secure buildings in the hope that less properties would be affected.

In the week commencing March 9, a warrant was executed and one male was arrested and items were recovered.

The other male is actively being sought.

Victoria Henderson, police community support officer, said: “With a lot of hard work and boots on the ground, we managed to identify two males who we believe are responsible.

“We still have a chainsaw and a leaf blower outstanding and would like to reunite them with their owners. If you believe they are yours please call 101 to report or alternatively you can go to Avon and Somerset website and report online.

“I would like to thank all the residents who were happy to speak to me and show me their CCTV footage.”

Avon and Somerset Police say that all victims have been contacted and updated.