Drain cover thieves struck eight times in Eltham and Mottingham over the last week, leaving dangerous holes in the ground and costing taxpayers around £1,600.

Greenwich Council is appealing for help following the spate of gully cover thefts, which pose serious risk to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, particularly children.

The cost of replacing each drain is around £200, on top of staff resources needed to carry out the work.

Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities said, “This isn’t just about the appalling waste of public money.

“When gully covers are stolen, this also poses a real risk of serious harm and injury to drivers, pedestrians, children and cyclists.”

The council is asking anyone who witnesses a theft to take as many details as possible, including photos of the missing drain cover, number plates and the exact location.

Witnesses should call the police on 101 if they see someone in the act of stealing, or report any missing covers to the council and the police.

People are advised not to approach the suspects or take photos of them.

Although this form of theft has been reduced by the banning of cash payments for scrap metal, the council is concerned by the recent spate.

Scrap metal dealers need to have a license from the local authority and keep a record of the goods they trade.

It is illegal to buy or sell scrap for cash, payment should be made by electronic transfer of cash so there is proof, and a trail of payments made.

Cllr Sizwe James, Cabinet Member for Environment, Sustainability and Transport, said, “This theft is really mindless.

“It costs the Council so much more to replace in taxpayer money, than the value of the scrap metal. If anyone sees someone removing these grids, please report it to the Police by calling 101.”