PEOPLE living in Colne are being asked to be on their guard to help police battle lead thieves who have been plaguing the town over the school holidays.

Hard-hit businesses and schools in Colne have been left counting the cost after scrap metal raiders have targeted their roofs and removed flashing and waterproofing.

Sgt Andy Cartwright, of Colne Police, said: "There have been a number of places targeted which are quiet or empty at the weekends.

"We would urge people to call police if they see any suspicious characters on the roof of commercial premises.

"They may be dressed in suitable attire and be wearing hard hats, and even have a van. But there is no harm in letting us know so we can check out the situation."

One firm to be repeated targeted, since May 23, has been Bronte Carpets, based in Bankfield Mill.

Sgt Cartwright says the firm has suffered "considerable problems" with rainwater leaking into the premises since lead has been removed from the roof there.

The thieves have also been active at St John Fisher More High School and Pendle Community High School recently.

Police are also offering the services of the division's architectural liaision officer, Barbara Hollingworth, in a bid to reduce the risk for firms.

Sgt Cartwright said she could offer advice and support to companies about how they can combat the thieves.

The measures deployed could include the anti-theft marking system Smart Water, anti-vandal paint or methods of making roof areas less accessible to intruders.

People who spot suspicious activity can contact Colne police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.