Metal thieves are striking along the M6 in the West Midlands at an average of at least once a month, highways bosses have revealed.

The Highways Agency has reported eight cases of theft, attempted theft and vandalism of cable within the last five months.

The attacks, which have caused delays for thousands of motorists following the removal of cables which connect to signs and CCTV cameras, have occurred between junction eight at West Bromwich and 11 at Cannock.

The theft reports were received between last September and January this year, costing thousands of pounds to put right.

The hard shoulder, which is opened up as a fourth lane during busy periods, has been unable to open on some occasions because of cable thefts.

It was unable to open for more than a week between junction 10 for Walsall and 10A for Wolverhampton during September after metal thieves stole equipment knocking out CCTV cameras and signs.

Highways Agency spokeswoman Jo Carroll said: “Theft or attempted theft of cable from the network is a serious criminal offence impacting traffic flows and potentially the safety of travellers as well as having a significant cost.

“When incidents occur we inform the police and do all that we can to help them bring offenders before the courts. Similarly, we act quickly to re-instate the loss of services as our maintenance contractors are available 24/7 to respond to damage and protect public safety.

“We are working with our contractors on a range of solutions to make it more difficult for the thieves to steal cable.

“Some immediate deterrents have already been installed, but for security reasons it would not be appropriate to give details.”