Outboard motor thefts on the rise

Thefts of outboard motors are reportedly on the rise, with a number of Oxfordshire rowing clubs targeted recently.

Four outboard motors were stolen from Radley College Boat Club earlier this month, following similar thefts from watersports sites at Gadstowe, Binsey and Heyford Hill (Oxford), as well as Oxford Brookes Boathouse and Wallingford & Shiplake College (Wallingford).

Sailing and watersports in the Thames Valley have been targeted regularly in the last year, and rowing clubs are advised to take all possible precautions to ensure that any property on their vessels is secure.

For specific advice on how best to secure your outboard motors, contact your local police constabulary.