THIEVES have put motorists and pedestrians at risk by steeling drain covers from an industrial estate.

Over the weekend 19 cast iron drain covers were taken from Aycliffe Business Park, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, leaving unmarked holes in the ground.

PC Alan Thompson, of Newton Aycliffe police, said the culprits had created a dangerous situation for visitors to the estate.

Although the items would be of relatively low value if sold as scrap they would be expensive for the two owners, a private company and Durham County Council, to replace, he added.

Ten cast iron drain covers were stolen from the car parks of units on Northfield Way and nine were removed from Hurworth Road.

PC Thompson is appealing for witnesses to come forward.

He said: "It would probably have taken two men to lift the covers and they would have required a vehicle, probably a van or wagon.

"If anyone saw anything suspicious or has heard anything since I’d encourage them to get in touch.

"Someone may have seen the thieves but dismissed them as genuine workmen so any information would be useful."

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Thompson on 0345-60-60-365.