Thefts of scrap metal appear to be well organised

SCRAP metal thieves have been targeting local leadwork specialists in the island and leaving them hundreds of pounds out of pocket.

A tonne of scrap metal, worth around £700, was taken from Leadwork Unlimited's scrap yard. Managing director Derek Rossiter said the culprits climbed over the gates and used a wheelbarrow to move the metal into a van before taking off.

He added lead fitted to a property the company was working on was stripped and taken by thieves.

'I am not sure of the actual value of what was taken, but I would say it would cost around £600 for the owner to have the work re-done and get new material.

'It seems to be on a much more organised scale and it seems the thieves are targeting because they are using the correct vehicles and know where the lead is stored.'

Mr Rossiter said the company had installed higher gates and a security camera.