Metal theft rises in the Rye area

Rising prices for scrap metal have seen thefts soar recently with villages targeted including Northiam, Beckley, Winchelsea Beach, Pett, Rye Foreign and Fairlight.

Sergeant Warren Downs from Rye neighbourhood policing team said: “The theft of lead and scrap metal has become a serious problem in the Rother area, with churches, schools, village halls and other public buildings being targeted. Even private properties have become a target for thieves looking to steal lead and copper to make money from selling it on.

“Metal thefts cause considerable inconvenience for victims and can be extremely costly to make repairs.

“Lead stolen from a roof will leave the building vulnerable to water damage and will need to be waterproofed as soon as possible. It can be incredibly dangerous to steal live copper wire or copper piping in use.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 quoting Op Motor.