Lives at risk as manhole thieves strike again

Reckless manhole maniacs are continuining to put lives at risk after they struck this week in Todwick.

As reported in last week’s Advertiser, the crazy thieves are carrying the  drain covers off by the van load for their scrap value.

Last week nearly 70 gully covers, costing at least £100 each to replace, were stolen from roads across the borough in just three days.

By today the total was soaring towards 200.

Around ten covers disappeared in Todwick, many of them along the same stretch of Goosecarr Lae and Barber Close. Council workmen were busy putting warning cones over the gaping manholes.

One passing driver who stopped in disbelief said: "With dark nights on us, somebody could be killed. If a cyclist or motor-cyclist hit these uncovered manholes it could be disastrous.

"They are close to the kerb and a car driver hitting these could lose control and end up on the pavement."

Last week fifteen manhole covers were stolen in broad daylight from one road in North Anston.

Shirley Hallam, the borough council's Streetpride area manager, said that the thefts were a major problem.

"We are asking eagle-eyed members of the public either to contact Streetpride on 01709 336003 to tell us about any missing gully covers or, if they see anyone acting suspiciously, to report the details to the police.

The grates, which are made either from cast iron or sprung steel have been stolen for their scrap value.