A SPATE of thefts of manhole and gulley covers in Knowsley could be putting drivers and pedestrians at risk.

Highways officers are calling on the public to report anything suspicious, following a series of incidents in Kirkby and Halewood.

The covers are being taken from manholes and gulleys on roads and pavements and often leave a hole of up to four metres deep exposed.

The thefts, thought to be the work of an organised gang, put people in danger, and the council also has to pay for a repair to make the hole safe.

The highways staff also then have to establish which utility company owns the cover.

Cllr Dave Lonergan, Knowsley’s cabinet member for regeneration, economy and skills said: “Any extra cost for the authority is difficult at the moment.

“But this is more about the danger the thefts are posing to the public.”

So far, the thieves have targeted the Highfield area of Towerhill, Knowsley Industrial Park around Webber, Charleywood and Yardley Roads, the School Lane area of Knowsley Business Park and Nunthorpe Road, in Halewood.

The public should report missing manhole covers in Knowsley to 0151 443 2400 and suspicious activity to police on 0151 777 6286.