POLICE are warning residents to be on their guard after a spate of lead thefts in the Northwich area.
Homes and shops have been hit and police believe there is a strong market for stolen metal in Mid Cheshire.
Thieves stripped lead flashing worth about £1,000 from the roof of a garage in Davenham two weeks ago. And a shop at Middlewich Road, Rudheath was targeted days later.
Sgt Dave Snasdell said: “Our officers have been working hard over the past few months to identify the culprits.
“We have arrested a number of offenders and recovered a significant amount of lead. However, in some cases we have had difficulty in identifying where the lead has been stolen from. If you have a large quantity of lead it is worth trying to mark it so, if necessary, you can identify it at a later date.
“We have also worked with scrap metal dealers, who could be potential outlets for those looking to dispose of stolen lead, to educate them about the legislation and, where appropriate, use enforcement measures.”
