The number of boilers being stolen from vacant council homes in Sheffield has dramatically reduced, according to the council.

Following a joint venture by Sheffield City Council and police the number of boiler thefts have decreased by 70 per cent.

In 2013 Sheffield City Council reported that 209 central heating boilers had been stolen costing £287,000 to replace.

However, figures have revealed that thefts dropped to 68 last year.

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Councillor Jayne Dunn, cabinet member for housing at Sheffield City Council, said: "Boiler thefts have been a significant problem and cost to the council. We’ve worked hard with the police and local communities to deter them.

"All boilers are now traceable and anyone found stealing, handling or fitting a stolen boiler will be reported to the police.

"The reduction in thefts means more money can be spent people’s homes rather than replacing stolen goods. We will continue to work closely together to continue to combat boiler theft."

All council boilers are now traceable and a number of sting-operations have been carried out after so called 'flat traps' were installed to catch the thieves.

(CD/MH)