THIEVES who stole power cables, causing a blackout of a row of properties in the Selby district last week, have put their lives and the lives of others at risk.

The thieves stole 300 metres of 44-volt cable from from Station Row Lane, Eggborough, close to the Jolly Miller pub at about 9.30pm last Tuesday.

It caused three nearby houses to be without power until the following day.

Nigel Walker, Northern Powergrid’s vulnerable assets manager, said: “This is a mindless attack by thieves on the power network, leaving our customers without power.

“The inconvenience caused to customers and communities is substantial.

“By tampering with live electricity cables, there is a high chance of injury to the thieves themselves, not to mention the risk to innocent members of the public.”

Anyone with information should phone 101, email david.clark@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.