Published: Tuesday, 22nd July, 2008 12:00
No covering the anger as thiefs branded 'maniacs'
By David Knox
Comments (0)
Print Article
SCRAP thieves who stole manhole covers from the A72 near Walkerburn have been branded maniacs.
Gaping holes were left over four underground drains after this week’s thefts.
And police as well local councillors believe it was only luck that prevented an accident.
Councillor Bill Herd told the Peeblesshire News: “This is highly irresponsible behaviour by maniacs.
“These people could cause serious accidents for innocent drivers. We can only presume they are taking these covers for their scrap value and I would urge anyone who sees anything suspicious to contact the police.”
Officers are appealing for witnesses to this week’s thefts.
A spokeswoman for the Lothian and Borders Force told us: “If anyone sees any vans parking suspiciously and anyone interfering with manhole covers they should get in touch – we would react immediately.
“These type of thefts, which we get reports of from time to time, are a danger to road-users, especially motorbikes.”
The real value of the covers is around £100 each with the scrap price as little as £10.
But the problem of scrap theft is growing throughout the country.
Both Scottish Water and Scottish Borders Council own manhole covers across Peeblessshire.
A spokesman for Scottish Water said: “Scottish Water is aware of the intermittent thefts of manhole covers in the Borders.
“We would ask local customers to be alert and telephone our Contact Centre on 0845 601 8855 should they suspect anyone of such theft.
“Scottish Water is a public company and therefore replacing such costly street works can cause undue expense.”
Scottish Borders Council are also aware of recent spates of thefts but a spokeswoman doesn’t believe the problem is widespread.
Del.icio.us
Digg
Facebook
Reddit
Stumbleupon
Further Details
Peeblesshire News saves Borders schools £200,000