FURTHER arrests have been made as part of a police campaign to tackle metal thefts.

Five men, aged between 20 and 44, were detained at a Hereford scrap yard yesterday on suspicion of thefts from residential properties in the town the previous day. All have been released on police bail while investigations continue.

The arrests are part of Project Livewire, West Mercia Constabulary's initiative to tackle this growing crime - which saw £1,000,000 worth of items stolen last year.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Jon Roberts, of the Force Intelligence Bureau said: "Project Livewire was launched last summer by the force to tackle the growing trend for theft of metal. More than 50 people have been arrested since the start of the campaign in July 2007."

Meanwhile Evesham Police are investigating the theft of lead flashing from the roof of a church in High Street, which happened at about 2.40pm on Thursday, January 24. The two male offenders were using a trolley and ran off when approached by a member of the public. They are described as white. The first was aged about 17, was 5ft 7ins tall and wore a light-coloured tracksuit and baseball cap. His accomplice was aged about 20, was taller and wore dark clothing and a baseball cap.

A significant increase in global demand for non-ferrous metals has been reflected in a rise in price and scrap values.

Criminals are increasingly targeting building sites, farms, churches and schools to steal copper, aluminium and steel.

Pipes, drain covers and even road signs are being taken.

Anyone with information about the Evesham incident can call police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.