Welshpool quarry theft leads to alert

Fuel and copper worth hundreds of pounds have been stolen from a Mid Wales quarry - the second such incident in the past few days.

Police are now warning farmers, businesses and residents to be on their guard against thieves who are operating in the area.

Thieves targeted Criggion Quarry, near Welshpool, sometime between Saturday evening and Monday morning in the latest incident, police said today.

It follows a similar raid at Middletown Quarry, which took place between Thursday and Friday.

Constable Andy Price, of Welshpool Police, said he was appealing for anyone who has seen anything suspicious to contact them.

He said: "Welshpool Police are investigating the theft of vehicle batteries, copper and red diesel.

"The offenders must have had a vehicle, most probably a 4x4 or a van."

He added: "We are still investigating the theft of red diesel fuel and scrap metal from Border Hardcore at Middlestown Quarry. The theft took place sometime between 4pm on Thursday and 7.30am on Friday."

Last week £300 of red diesel was stolen from a tank in Meifod and in a separate incident, more than 600 litres of red diesel was stolen from a farm in Abermule, near Newtown.

Anyone with information can call 0845 3302000.