THIEVES have targeted Anglian Water sites across Cambridgeshire 19 times in just seven weeks, stealing copper and other metals. Since the first incident, which took place on January 24, two sites have been hit on three separate occasions. The latest theft

THIEVES have targeted Anglian Water sites across Cambridgeshire 19 times in just seven weeks, stealing copper and other metals.

Since the first incident, which took place on January 24, two sites have been hit on three separate occasions.

The latest theft took place between midday on Wednesday, February 28, and 11am the following day, at the Hemingford Abbots compound. Tools and manhole covers were stolen.

Detective constable Steve Acott, who is investigating the thefts, said: "Not only are these items costly to replace, but dangerous access points have been left uncovered which could have resulted in someone receiving a serious head injury, had they fallen down.

"Communities living near Anglian Water sites need to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police."

Police have stepped up patrols around Anglian Water sites, but thieves are also targeting other businesses. Metal cabling was stolen from a business near to the Little America industrial estate in Little Staughton on February 21. Three men wearing balaclavas broke into the property at about 8.30pm.

Dan Baker, spokesman for Anglian Water, said: "These sites are potentially very dangerous and, regardless of the reason why people are accessing them, I'd urge them to think very carefully before trespassing. The theft of metal from our sites has, of course, been frustrating and costly for us, but we would hate to see anyone getting injured and would therefore wholeheartedly back the message from the police for people to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity."

A spokesman added that Anglian Water would be looking at security to prevent further thefts. Sites targeted are at Burwell, Bourne, Over, Linton, Great Paxton, Foxton, Ely, Stretham, St Ives, Somersham, Witcham, Waterbeach, Cotton, Hemingford Abbots and Royston.

INFORMATION: Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0845 4564564 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.