ALMOST 30 manhole and drain covers have been stolen from roads in and around Henley, endangering the lives of road-users.

Nine drain covers were taken from a half-mile stretch of the A4155 Henley-to-Reading Road between Lower Shiplake and Span Hill during Monday night.

Nineteen manhole covers were taken from the A4074 between Woodcote and Checkendon on Wednesday last week.

A white transit van was seen in the area shortly before the theft was discovered.

Supt Chris Sharp, area commander for South Oxfordshire, said: “Given the size and weight of the stolen items and the quantity that was taken, it is more than likely that a van was used by the thieves. I would urge anyone who travelled along this road and may have seen anyone acting suspiciously, or any suspicious vehicles parked up, to contact us immediately.


“I would also urge people to beware of this type of offence, where thieves target metal to sell on.”

An AA spokesman called the thefts “disgusting and shameful”. He said: “It could lead to the death of a cyclist and cars could be badly damaged.

“You hear of advertisements appealing for scrap metal and that is where this incentive lies. To steal metal for the sake of a few pounds is disgraceful.”

Anyone with information should call police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Published 17/01/11