Residents living in the historic core of Midhurst are fighting back after a series of lead thefts from the area.
In the past month no less than five homes in the Sheep Lane, Church Hill and Edinburgh Square area of the town have been targeted by thieves stealing lead from roofs and front porches.
Now residents are moving to protect their properties with several measures including covering lead in special anti-vandal paint.
Carol Bristocke is among those who felt it was time to fight back.
“It’s been a nightmare and it’s very worrying. We all live in the Conservation area of the town in the sort of houses that are often targeted and it costs a fortune to replace the stolen lead.”
She said some residents had already taken action and employed a specialist to paint their leaded roofs.
“We hope it will be quite a deterrent as the paint doesn’t dry. It is impossible to remove from clothes and also stains the skin.
“So if anybody gets the tiniest bit on them, it stays there for a long time.”
Sgt Chris White, head of the Midhurst and Petworth neighbour policing team said: “Lead theft is occurring locally and nationally.
“Prices for this recycled material are still strong.
“Police are urging people to inform the police if they see anyone in suspicious circumstances.
“People found removing lead are committing theft.
“Anyone who has any information about who is actively involved in these types of incidents is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.”
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