Appeal after bridle stolen from Devon traveller

Police are appealing for information after a bridle was taken from a traveller’s horse in Exeter on Friday 20 March.

The well-known traveller John Treagood was parked with his horse and caravan on the Alphington roundabout, underneath the A30, when he was approached by a man driving a white or cream vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle asked the 79-year-old if he was going to sell his horse, before stealing the black leather bridle off the horse while the victim’s back was turned, sometime between 3pm and 5pm.

The suspect is described as white, of large build, in his 40s or 50s, with grey hair.

PC Carolyn Studd, based at Heavitree Road police station, said: “John is very well-known in the area and he can’t get back on the road without a bridle for his horse.

“I would really appreciate help from the public, whether they have witnessed the incident, recognise the description of the suspect, or have any information that could help with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information is asked to email 101@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting crime reference CR/019001/15.