West Mercia Police and Worcestershire County Council have warned people to “drive with caution” after man hole covers have been stolen.

The announcement came after it was reported that more than 200 drain covers have been pillaged by thieves in Worcestershire over the past few weeks.

The thefts of the metal plates have left "dangerous" holes in the road which could prove hazardous to all manner of vehicles, pedestrians and animals.

Covers have reportedly been stolen across the Wychbold area over the past fortnight, as well as from Elmley Castle, towards Hinton on the Green.

The County Council have been forced to use temporary measures to counteract the missing covers and retain road safety standards.

An official statement on behalf of West Mercia Police and Worcestershire County Council said: “Officers are working closely with National Highways and Worcestershire County Council to ensure the county’s roads remain safe and to investigate the thefts.

“The County Council are working hard to replace any missing covers with temporary plastic covers or putting safety barriers in place to ensure our roads remain safe, however caution when travelling is advised.

“If you see any suspicious behaviour or suspicious vehicles, or information regarding the thefts, please contact the Police via 101.

“The Council and Police would particularly like to hear from anyone who has footage from their CCTV or video doorbells that may be of use in helping catch the thieves.”

On Tuesday, Worcestershire Highways and Travel tweeted to say they had received further reports of drain cover thefts across Wychavon. 

Missing covers have also been spotted near Jubilee Bridge, Cropthorne, Wyre Piddle and several up the road to Throckmorton.

It is thought criminals are targeting the cast iron drain covers for their scrap metal value.

To report a missing man hole cover to the county council, you can visit here. Or call 01905 845676.