Bolton residents have been asked to be vigilant after metal thieves made off with thousands of pounds worth of drain covers from public streets.
Greater Manchester Police are investigating after a dozen gully tops were taken from the Little Lever and Breightmet areas earlier this month.
Seven metal grids were taken from Newby Road on Sunday (September 2nd), and a total of five from Masefield Road, Oak Avenue, Holder Avenue, Marsh Road on Tuesday (September 4th).
All missing gully covers, which cost approximately £200 each, have since been replaced by Bolton Council’s Streetcare team.
Residents have been asked to keep an eye out for anyone acting suspiciously and pass any relevant information to council officers or the police.
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Cllr David Chadwick, said: “We urge residents to help find the perpetrators of these thoughtless and irresponsible crimes, which have cost council tax payers thousands of pounds.
“Not only do these items cost a significant amount to replace, but leaving drains and gullies uncovered represents a serious risk to the public.
“If anyone has information about who is responsible for the thefts, or details of any vehicles involved, please contact the council or the police.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Greater Manchester Police on 101 or Bolton Council’s Streetcare team on 01204 336600 or use the online reporting tool at bolton.gov.uk/report-street-problem.