A NEW campaign has been launched in a bid to tackle metal thefts in Gloucestershire.

The campaign, launched by Crimestoppers, follows the increase in thefts of metal across the county, including a recent case when copper from power cables was stolen from St David's School in Moreton, forcing school to be abandoned for the day.

Publicity material is to be distributed in an effort to raise the profile of this growing area of crime, which has been sparked by the soaring price of metal on the international market.

Jamie Eykyn, chairman of the Gloucestershire Crimestoppers board, said: "Metal theft has been on the increase in Gloucestershire in recent years, with 2007 seeing a 25 per cent increase in offences compared to the previous year.

"The police have made a significant number of arrests for these offences, but we still need to encourage the public to report their suspicions on whoever is responsible for these offences to us.

"People ringing Crimestoppers can be confident that all information is dealt with anonymously, and cash rewards are even on offer."

Mr Eykyn also said that the campaign is intended to raise awareness of the problem so that people can take steps to safeguard their property.

Premises commonly targeted by metal thieves include churches and other religious buildings, where lead is predominantly stolen, electricity substations, where copper wiring is taken, housing developments, where copper piping is taken, and industrial estates, which are targeted for scrap metal.

The campaign asks for information on: Who the thieves are; Who is trading in illegal metal; When and where crimes are likely to take place; and Where are illegal materials being kept after they are stolen, and by whom.

Anyone with information on the above should ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. To report a crime in progress dial 999.