The current high price for scrap copper and lead is creating havoc for householders and businesses across Bury, it has been revealed.

Over the past 12 weeks 56 reports of lead and 18 reports of copper were reported stolen to the police. Business premises, public buildings and residential homes have had lead stripped from roofs and porches.

Copper piping has also been removed from predominantly empty buildings, with whole central heating systems being stolen.

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Gaynor Mason, Crime Reduction Advisor, said: “A shortage of raw materials is driving a high price for copper and lead at scrap yards. This type of theft is easy pickings for thieves who target residential premises whilst occupants are away on holiday should be sought on a case-by-case basis.

“Where possible lead should not be replaced like-for-like and advice sought from professional tradesmen regarding the use of alternative products such as flash banding or Metaflash. Copper piping can also be replaced with plastic speed fit pipes.”

Further information can be obtained from a local Crime Reduction Advisor on 0161 856 8046 and anyone with information on these types of theft can contact Bury Police on 0161 856 8061 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(JM)