BRITISH Transport Police is taking the fight to cable thieves in Sandbach.

During the past month the area has seen a number of incidents involving the theft, or attempted theft, of cable – a crime which costs the rail industry hundreds of thousands of pounds each year as well as countless hours of delays.

Since the middle of December the cost of theft and damage in the towns is estimated at more than £5,000 and BTP is working closely with Network Rail to reduce further opportunities for thieves.

Inspector Sonja Simister said: “Often cable and metal thieves find a spot to their liking and return to that spot on several occasions.

“Sadly it seems that Middlewich and Sandbach have been singled out recently and despite our efforts, including increased patrols, use of specialist officers and close liaison with Network Rail, the thieves are still operating in the area.

“Our high visibility patrols will continue in the area, but I am calling on local people to keep an eye out for anyone acting suspiciously on or near the railway and to report any unusual activity to us.

“It may be that the people on the railway are there for genuine reasons, but it is better to alert us to their presence and allow us to check them out.”

Many of the incidents have occurred near to Booth Lane and officers are calling for people in this area – including local farmers – to be especially vigilant.

Insp Simister added: “The nature of cable theft means that often it is carried out in rural, or semi-rural, areas and as such farmers can often be a great source of information.

“If you see people on your land near to the railway contact us immediately – you may be able to help prevent further thefts.”

Cable theft emerged as an issue for the railway in 2006 when the price of metals on world markets began to soar and reached a peak in 2008 in line with the continuing increase in the value of metal.

As the recession hit across the world the price of metal fell sharply – as did the number of thefts recorded by British Transport Police.

However, 2009 saw a steady recovery in metal prices and also a steady rise in the number of thefts.

To date the value of metal, particularly copper, has continued to rise and is expected to do so throughout 2010.

In line with this BTP will continue to target those who seek to profit through the theft of metal and cable and will continue to run the specialist Operation Drum which is dedicated to this type of theft