Stone pinched by hole in the wall gang

BRAZEN thieves are being hunted — after stealing a wall in Oldham.

Oldham Council is urging residents to be vigilant after the thieves stole stone from the wall in Cook Street, Clarksfield, that will cost more than £12,000 to replace.

Around 50 square metres of natural stone and two tonnes of coping and walling stone were taken.

The thefts occurred last Tuesday and were spotted by a member of the public who reported the incident to the council.

Greater Manchester Police have been informed and are now investigating.

Councillor Jean Stretton, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “The thieves have been motivated by the idea that they can make easy money.

“They showed a total disregard for public safety as they left the area in a dangerous condition and it had to be made safe by council workers.

“We have informed Oldham Police and will not hesitate to prosecute anyone who is arrested.

“What is particularly annoying is that we will now have to replace the stolen stone and council tax payers will have to foot the bill.

“Over recent months the borough has also been targeted by thieves stealing highway grids and thefts of this nature are a drain on resources.

“I would ask anyone who witnesses the theft of council property to report it immediately so we can take action.

Anyone who has any information about the stone thefts should call Greater Manchester Police on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.