POLICE have launched a new initiative to help tackle the dramatic rise of metal thefts in Ryedale.

An increase in the worldwide price of copper, lead and other non-ferrous metals has led to a significant rise in the number of metal thefts.

As a result, officers are distributing information and advice, which may assist people in making their property less desirable to metal thieves. This includes:

• Remove any means of intruders gaining access to your roof, including wheelie bins, garden furniture, water butts and tall trees near your building;

• Store ladders and scaffolding materials in a secure place; 

• Don’t help thieves carry your metal away. Remove all wheelbarrows and wheelie bins;

• Trim shrubs and hedges to 1.2 metres with a tree canopy maintained above two metres, maximising natural surveillance. If planting hedging as a barrier, choose a variety that has thorns and is difficult to penetrate;

• Apply anti-climb paint to drainpipes and guttering above a height of two metres. You must display prominent notices warning people of its use;

• Where possible restrict vehicle access to your site and keep any gates locked;

• Be vigilant if workmen or vehicles arrive at your site unexpectedly and note any registration numbers;

• Encourage members of your local community to keep an eye on your building and report any suspicious activity;

• Join a Neighbourhood Watch scheme;

• Avoid storing more metal on site than is needed for that day’s work. If this is unavoidable ensure metals are stored securely and out of public view;

• Install security lighting and CCTV with adequate monitoring and recording.

PCSO Claire Routh, who is based in the Pickering area, said: “Metal theft is not a victimless crime, it can have a devastating impact on individuals, communities and businesses.

“Challenges exist in our isolated rural areas where communities are targeted by travelling criminals residing outside Ryedale, who come looking to steal farm machinery, quads, tools and metal of all descriptions.”

Anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. Visit northyorkshire.police.uk/crimeprevention