POLICE have reported thieves successfully stole a boat and attempted to take another 'in the Windermere area.' 

This is despite several arrests under Operation Headway. 

A Cumbria Police spokesperson said this 'remains an issue in the Lakes.'

They continued: "Our investigations and information provided show that these thefts are occurring during daylight hours and by offenders who in the main are travelling to Cumbria to commit offences."

The police asked boat-owners to remain vigilant and report any suspicious issues to them by calling 101, emailing 101@cumbria.police.uk or calling 999 when a crime is in progress. 

The spokesperson said the police had a number of free SelectaDNA property marking kits, and if anyone is interested in having their boat, trailer or related equipment marked they can get in touch. 

Cumbria Police will also be issuing a large number of tracking devices that can be hidden inside boats and trailers, which are free of charge as they are funded by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.