Stolen drain covers

There's been a spate of stolen drain covers in Cheshire East – can you help catch the thieves?

"Hundreds, if not, thousands of pounds will need to spent replacing these drain covers – money which should be used to carry out planned highway repairs." Cheshire East Councillor Rod Menlove, speaking after it emerged yet more drain covers have been stolen.

The authority is appealing to local residents to help them catch the prolific thief or thieves. More than 70 drain covers have been taken since January 12th 2011. There has only been one suspected sighting of the thief or thieves since that time.

The uncovered drains can cause a significant danger to both pedestrians and drivers. The covers are worth very little when sold as scrap but cost thousands of pounds to replace.

Cheshire East Council is now urging residents and scrap-metal yard owners to be extra vigilant and report anything suspicious.

Cheshire East Councillor Rod Menlove continued: "We are making every effort to replace the covers as soon as possible but this theft needs to stop. I appeal to those carrying out the crimes to think about the consequences of their actions and to the residents of Cheshire East to help us catch them."

Residents are urged to contact Cheshire Police on 0845 4580000 or Cheshire East Council highways service on 0300 123 5500.

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