Metal Thieves Cause Thousands In Damage To Disused Hospital – Kidderminster

Police in Kidderminster are appealing for information after metal thieves caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a disused hospital in Cookley.

One of the bungalows on the site of Lea Castle Hospital was broken into between 5.15pm on Wednesday, 22 August and 10.20am on Thursday, 23 August.

Thieves removed copper water pipes from the property and cut the mains pipe, which flooded the bungalow, causing around £10,000 worth of damage.

PC Rich Allen from Kidderminster police station said: "Metal theft is not a victimless crime. This site still belongs to the NHS and any cost to them is a cost to the public purse - which we all know is under a lot of strain at the moment.

"We really need the public's help to assist us in cracking down on these types of crimes.

"Many metal thefts take place overnight and we would urge anyone who spots any suspicious people or vehicles hanging around empty or derelict buildings - which are often targeted by offenders - to get in touch.

"Even if the person appears to be dressed in work clothes, such as high visibility jackets or vests and work boots, police would much rather check a person is genuine than have a metal theft to deal with further down the line."

Anyone with information about this burglary can call PC Allen on 0300 333 3000, quoting 259S 230812 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Issued: Friday, 24 August 2012