THERE has been a big rise in metal thefts across the country recently so in this column I want to touch on what you and the police can do to tackle this.

The thefts range from lead flashing off houses, garages or factories to manhole covers from the road.

In an effort to combat this crime the police have launched an initiative across the Wyre Forest area.

As part of this initiative I have visited scrap metal dealers with a representative from the council and a forensic property marking company called Smartwater.

More and more businesses are protecting their property with this type of forensic marking product which is available from a number of companies, including Smartwater. More information on these can be found on the West Mercia Police website at westmercia.police.uk.

Once an item is marked it carries a unique code that cannot be removed. It has been shown that thieves avoid marked property and I would encourage you to consider marking your own property be it metal, personal valuables or electrical items.

It is very important that you advertise that your property is protected by using things such as stickers in your windows (usually provided by the company).

During our visit to the scrapyards we briefed the staff and provided them with information packs and a special torch that can detect forensically marked items. This will enable scrapyards to refuse stolen goods and cut off the opportunity for thieves to gain from their ill-gotten gains.

Additionally, police officers will be carrying out regular visits to see who is visiting the yards and checking items ourselves.

The police also have special torches and these will be used by officers on patrol, checking recovered property and when searching individuals or buildings.

As always if you see anything suspicious please call the police on 0300 333 3000. (Vehicle registration numbers are particularly helpful!).