DRAINAGE and manhole covers from across Harpenden were stolen overnight.

A member of the public first reported the missing drainage covers along Cold Harbour Lane early this morning.

More than 10 covers were missing from the road posing danger for traffic and anybody wishing to park there.

Herts Highways were alerted of the incident and made them safe but one passer by, out walking with his son, said it was still quite dangerous.

He was told by a Highways worker that the covers weigh about 14kg and cost about �15 each but if the thieves wished to sell them on, they would need to break them into smaller pieces to avoid being caught.

Missing drainage covers were also reported on Common Lane, Porters Hill and Tallents Crescent.