Health risk from stainless steel theft

THIEVES who stole several hundreds pounds worth of stainless steel goods from a sewage works could have caused a considerable risk to the environment. The Anglian Water premises in Bythorn Road, between Bythorn and Molesworth, was raided between 10am on T

THIEVES who stole several hundreds pounds worth of stainless steel goods from a sewage works could have caused a considerable risk to the environment.

The Anglian Water premises in Bythorn Road, between Bythorn and Molesworth, was raided between 10am on Tuesday, October 17, and 8am on Thursday, October 19.

A wire fence at the front of the works was forced apart and items stolen included a plank, a hose reel, two walkway grids and an inlet screen.

Collette Nicholls, from Anglian Water, said it was "extremely dangerous" to tamper with an inlet screen.

She said: "An inlet screen is designed to take out solid items from raw sewage and is operated automatically. So that although it may look inactive it can jump into action without warning.

"Items such as sanitary towels, condoms and nappies are often found on inlet screens as well as needles thrown down drains and toilets by drug addicts. Therefore the screens when touched can pose risks to health.

"Taking an inlet screen out of action also poses a considerable risk to the environment as sewage flooding can result in pollution of waterways and rivers. Fortunately the quick reaction of our staff prevented any flooding and environmental damage."

INFORMATION: Anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Claire Reeve on 0845 4564564 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.