RESIDENTS in Stockton are being urged to remain vigilant to try to prevent thieves stealing drain covers.

Stockton Borough Council has issued the warning as 58 of the gully covers have been taken from kerbsides across the borough this year.

Officers say the thefts pose a risk of serious accident to pedestrians and motorists.

It is thought the covers are targeted to be sold on as scrap metal The thefts have cost local tax payers an estimated £4,250 this year.

Stockton Borough Council has, where possible, replaced the covers with plastic versions, made from recyclable materials which have little or no resale value.

Councillor Steve Nelson, Stockton Council’s cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "We are asking residents to be vigilant to help us catch those responsible and we also want them to let us know where covers have disappeared so we can replace them."

Inspector Andy Fox, of Cleveland Police, added: "Stealing gully covers is a very serious offence and can pose a significant problem for the council as well as causing potential serious injury to members of the public.

"I would urge anyone who sees the covers being tampered with or stolen to contact Stockton Police or the council immediately."

Metal thefts have become an increasing problem since the value of scrap metal rose.

Last year Operation Graphite was launched in the Stockton area by Cleveland Police and, in partnership with the Vehicle Operator Services Agency (VOSA) and scrapyards, neighbourhood police teams across the town security marked metal with Smartwater.

Lead and other metals on churches, schools and homes, as well as grates and drain covers, were sprayed with the securitywater, which shows up under UV light.

It is hoped that with this scheme and the use of plastic drain covers the number of thefts will fall.

To report a missing gully cover, call Stockton Borough Council’s care for your area team on 01642-391959.

Residents witnessing any suspicious behaviour should contact Cleveland Police on 01642-302226 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.