Police today warned drivers or cyclists could be killed as the theft of manhole covers around a Shropshire town has left roads a “deathtrap”.

Thieves, aiming to sell the covers for their scrap metal value, have targeted villages in the Oswestry area, including Knockin, Maesbury, West Felton and Woolston Bank in the past few days.

It is the second spate of such thefts in the Oswestry area within a month and also follows the theft of metal fittings from railway track near Morton, owned by the town’s Cambrian Heritage Railways group.

Constable Simon Clarke said the theft of manhole covers put lives at risk and said the public’s help was vital in finding the thieves.

He said: “The removal of the manholes are leaving huge holes in the road and is causing a massive risk of personal injury.

Damaged

“Pedestrians or cyclists who do not see the drain covers have been removed could easily fall down them.

“They are on quiet country lanes and particularly at night they could be a deathtrap.

“There is also a concern also that vehicles could be badly damaged if motorists drive into them.

“The public can be our eyes and ears on this. If anyone sees anything suspicious they should contact the police immediately.”

Last month six cast iron covers were stolen from the road leading out of the town to the Old Racecourse, while others were taken from rural areas including Weston Rhyn, Gobowen, St Martins and Dudleston Heath.

Mr Clarke said: “It appears the thieves have now turned their attention to the areas south of the town. Presumably they are being taken to be sold on for scrap.

“As well as the risk of serious injury, the financial cost to replace them will have to be met by the taxpayer.

“It costs Shropshire Council a lot to replace them and in the end we all end up paying for it.”

Mr Clarke said anyone who has seen anything suspicious in the areas that have been targeted should contact police on 0300 333 3000 immediately.

People can also contact Mr Clarke at Oswestry police station or call the free Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.

By Iain St John