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Large stretch of dale road stripped of drain covers
May 25, 2010
MOTORISTS are being warned to be on their guard after more than 20 drain covers were stolen from a single stretch of road in Teesdale.
Police have said that the theft of the covers, from the A67 between Gainford and Piercebridge, could have proved dangerous to road users, particular motorcyclists.
Sgt Chris Knox, of Barnard Castle Police, said: “There is potential that this could cause a road traffic accident, where a driver could come off the road, or extreme damage could be caused to a vehicle.”
The theft of the covers – which are likely to be sold on for scrap – was reported at the weekend and police think the covers were all taken over a couple of hours by one person or gang.
Darlington highways authority put out warning cones to alert drivers to the danger, and has since replaced the stolen covers.
Sgt Knox said: “It would take some considerable time to remove the covers, and take them away.
“If anyone saw anyone on the stretch of road, parked up, that
did not look like council workmen or the highways agency, please contact us.
“Even if it is just a brief description, or part of a registration number, we would be interested to hear from them.
“Taking these is a danger to road users, especially motorcyclists, and it could cause serious damage or an
accident.”
Anyone with information on the thefts should call police on 0345 60 60 365.