Increase in metal thefts

The Neighbourhood Policing team are reporting an increase in metal thefts in the area, in particular the theft of lead from both domestic and commercial roofs.  This is largely due to the increase in the price of scrap metals including lead and copper - thieves who may well have broken into cars etc in the past are finding that lead/copper currently brings a higher price.

Inspector Sue Sanderson says "We recognise that 'unscrupulous' scrap dealers have a part to play in buying the metals and some work is being done in this area.  Obvious deterrents to thieves would be security lighting and CCTV however,  a less costly option would be to paint the lead with 'anti-vandal' paint which is a sticky black substance.  This makes the removal of the lead a very messy job and also alerts scrap dealers that perhaps it is not legitimate."

If you have any information that may help the police please contact them by phone or email them at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it