Trust counts the cost metal theft at Newport canal bridge

Members of Shrewsbury and Newport Canal Trust discovered that the rubbing post, which is four feet high and weighs up to 800lb, was missing at the end of last week.

They believe at least two people would have been needed to drag it to a car after crowbarring it away from the bridge by Ticket House Lock in Newport.

Members have labelled the theft "crackers" after claiming the post would only be worth "a couple of quid" to anyone trying to sell it as scrap.

Bernie Jones, from the trust, said: "It seems to have been taken overnight on Friday. The tell-tale signs are there that someone has used a crowbar to get it off the bridge and then dragged it for a little bit, probably to put it in a car before driving off.

"We are just scratching our heads as to why anyone would want to take it.

"Its scrap value is really low. They are probably going to get two quid for it and I am being serious about that. It's crackers.

"We know this because we recycle scrap to raise money for the trust. The bottom has fallen out of the market."

Ticket House Lock is a minor waterways place on the Shropshire Union Canal between Humber Branch Junction and Newport Canal Basin.

Shrewsbury and Newport branches of the canal network were brought together under the common ownership of the Shropshire Union Railway & Canal Company in 1846.

The Shrewsbury & Newport Canal Society was formed in 1965 but after the canal was sold off it turned to other projects.

The trust was eventually formed to save the waterway following the continued destruction of the canal, which led to many locks being buried.

Volunteers now help to maintain the network and regular work parties are held to keep the canals and paths in working order, meaning any thefts have to be made up through fundraising or grants.

Mr Jones said police had been informed about the rubbing post theft and were investigating.

He said: "They are looking into it.

"We are really appealing for information as someone must know where it is and who has got it.

"It's a huge thing. It looks a bit like a giant pencil. We are a bit worried now because there is one on the other bridge near to it and we are hoping that does not get targeted as well.

"We are facing a big repair bill for the bridge, which has been damaged by it being pulled out, and to replace the actual iron itself. It will be thousands.

"The actual structure of the bridge isn't under threat but it has made it look a bit tatty.

"It's mindless and frustrating when everyone is working so hard behind the scenes to improve the canals and waterways."

Anyone with information that might lead to the safe return of the iron is asked to contact Mr Jones directly on 07971 016322.

Information can also be left with police by calling the non-emergency 101 number.