BLANDFORD police are appealing for witnesses after a theft from a building site in the town.

The incident, in which thieves stole a large amount of lead, happened some time between 6pm on Sunday and 8am on Monday at a building plot called Downside in Milldown Road.

Offenders stole lead from the roof of the construction using tools found at the scene. They also stole a large roll of lead from an insecure garage, worth more than £1,000.

PC Richard Cooke, of Blandford police, said: “I am appealing for witnesses who saw suspicious behaviour in the area at this time to come forward.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who has been offered lead for sale in strange circumstances or for an unusually low price.

“I would like to remind building businesses to secure valuable items as much as possible and not to leave tools accessible to offenders.”

Crime prevention advice can be found at: http://CrimePrevention.dorset.police.uk.

PC Cooke added: “Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is asked to contact the police in confidence.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 21:106.

Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.