AN ex-MP and council leader has complained about metal grates, which have been stolen from Accrington.

Graham Jones, former MP for Haslingden and Hyndburn, complained to National Highways after a number of grates were spotted without their metal covers in the town.

It is believed that they were taken overnight on Saturday, July 29.

Graham said: “I’m told many grates have been stolen. This has been reported to National Highways. 

“Clamping down on metal theft was one of the campaigns I led in Parliament. The number of illegal collectors across Hyndburn has and is rising.”

Police have since launched an appeal, asking for dash cam and CCTV footage.

Officers have asked the public for information about three men, spotted in a yellow van with a black trim.

These men were seen taking the grates in the Springhill and Huncoat areas.

A police spokesperson said: “We are appealing for dash cam/CCTV footage of three males seen in a yellow van with black/dark trim taking the grates in the Springhill and Huncoat areas.

“If anyone has footage showing offenders taking the grates then please get in touch on 101 quoting reference 0519 of July 29.”