The theft of two outboard engines from a fishing boat in north Norfolk at the weekend comes just weeks after a crime prevention initiative was launched further along the coast after a spate of marine motor raids.

The theft of two outboard engines from a fishing boat in north Norfolk at the weekend comes just weeks after a crime prevention initiative was launched further along the coast after a spate of marine motor raids.

Two Honda engines were taken from the catamaran of Sea Palling fisherman Dean Ellis, when it was parked in a field off Clink Road.

His partner Kirsty Ritchie said the theft meant Mr Ellis could not go to sea until �6,000 replacements had been found. The theft happened over Friday night, just three days after an attempt to steal the engines.

Last month, Norfolk police responded to a spate of 14 outboard thefts in the past year by launching a scheme at Wells. Boat owners can buy �10 breathable covers to replace their motor cowlings overnight - leaving potential thieves with a less saleable incomplete engine.

Anyone with information about the latest theft should contact police on 0845 456 4567.