POLICE are appealing for information after Ordnance Survey maps were stolen from a number of towns, including Bude and Launceston.

Since March, there have been several thefts from shops in the Force area, during which approximately £3,000 worth of maps have been stolen.

Officers are currently investigating any links between each of the crimes.

The maps have been taken from Ordnance Survey stands which have been on prominent display in each of the shops.

A police spokesman said: "We think there would have been other shoppers in the areas at the time of these offences and would ask anyone with information to contact the police. We have also issued crime prevention advice to stores in the areas and would remind people to remain vigilant."

In 2007 there was a series of 16 similar thefts, with approx £10,000 worth of maps stolen.

Anyone with any information relating to the thefts is asked to contact the police on 08452 777444.