Criminals are raiding the countryside and stealing farm vehicles to rip cash machines out of walls.
Last week, a green Merlo telehandler, stolen from a nearby farm was used to steal the ATM from Totnes Cross Filling Station near Halwell in the South Hams.
The thieves partly demolished the petrol station in the process of raiding the ATM.
Rural police across the UK have reported that machines such as telescopic handlers are being stolen from farms by criminals wanting to steal ATMs.
Totnes Police said: "Police across the South Hams wish to raise awareness regarding the possible theft and subsequent use of farming agricultural vehicles in the targeting of cash machines, particularly at petrol stations during the night.
"Last week, we saw a Merlo used to steal a cash machine from a petrol station at Totnes Cross. This Merlo was stolen from a nearby farm.
"Last night, three male offenders attempted to steal a Merlo from a Farm close to Kingsbridge, no doubt to be used to commit similar crime. They were unsuccessful as were disturbed by residents.
"Please help spread the word and make sure efforts are made to better secure farming/building site machinery in order that these vehicles aren't used to commit further crime."
