Devon and Cornwall Police are warning dealers in the area of a man thought to be behind an ongoing series of car thefts.

The man in question has been stealing cars since mid-July.

Robin Moorcroft, neighbourhood team leader at Wadebridge Police Station, Cornwall, said: "He has been stealing cars since mid-July. He finds members of the public who are selling low priced vehicles, typically under £1,000 or thereabouts.

"He talks the owners into allowing him to test drive the vehicle, together with the documentation, and does not return.

"Either that day or the following he will then sell that vehicle to a small trader/dealer somewhere in the police force area.

"He will then seek to steal another vehicle and so the cycle continues."

The male in question is thought to be behind at least 10 thefts.

He has no known links with the Devon and Cornwall area.

He is a white male, aged in his late 50’s with a very strong Scottish accent and goes by the name of Ian.

He is of slim build and about 6’1 in height.

Police suspect he has stolen vehicles from Paignton, North Devon, and south as far as Redruth.

PC Moorcroft said: "We are seeking to apprehend the male and also reduce losses to dealers who are paying to purchase the cars, but then handing them back to the true owners when the vehicle has been identified as stolen.

"If this male is recognised at a dealership, may I suggest the staff try and keep him talking whilst a discreet 999 call is made by another staff member. A brief call is all that is needed telling the police that the Scottish male who is stealing vehicles is in their premises."