LEAD thieves have targeted schools in the Selby area.

The first incident occurred at Riccall Primary School, but staff said they were unsure when the theft had taken place, and it was unclear how much lead had been stolen.

The second theft was reported on the morning of October 19 by the bursar and caretaker of Monk Fryston CE Primary School.

It is believed the lead from Monk Fryston’s roof had been taken between the summer holidays and last week, and police said CCTV cameras had been moved to face the floor, meaning no usable footage was taken.

Despite police action taken to curb metal theft and similar crimes, including Operation Asterix in Selby, the high scrap price of metal has seen thefts increase in the area.

Last month, tools and metal worth £33,000 were stolen from the disused Wistow Mine site, including aluminium and copper wire, stainless steel tanks, as well as thousands of pounds worth of power tools, and thieves stole three original and unique sculptures weighing more than one-and-a-half tonnes from the home of Selby artist Michael Lyons, which were made from sheet copper and bronze, and worth tens of thousands of pounds.

Last week, officers from North Yorkshire Police made seven arrests following raids at homes around the York area under Operation Asterix, and seized a haul of suspected stolen metal, as well as drugs and weapons.

Witnesses should contact North Yorkshire Police on 0845 6060247.