Drain covers, worth thousands of pounds, have been stolen from Wyre Forest roads by metal thieves posing as council workers, it was revealed today.

More than 20 cast-iron drainage covers were taken over one 24-hour period alone.

Police believe the thieves may have been dressed like workmen to avoid arousing the suspicion of passing motorists.

The slated metal covers for gutter drainage have all been taken from country roads between the A456 and the A451 Five Ways island at Ismere.

Roads bordering the A449 have also been targeted during the latest swoop between 3.15pm on Thursday and 3.40pm on Friday.

Thieves have struck at Kinver Lane, Churchill and Blakedown, Caunsall and Cookley.

The Switchback at Bewdley was also targeted about a month ago when four gullies were stolen.

Worcestershire County Council is now facing a bill of several thousand pounds to replace the covers taken in the latest spate of thefts.

Pc Niki Deakin said: “Apart from the cost and disruption there is also the safety issue as it leaves drains exposed.

“This creates a hazard to traffic and in particular cyclists and horse riders.

Anyone wishing to report suspicious activity or has information about the thefts should contact PC Deakin on 0300 333 3000, quoting incident 406-S-261009.