AN MP has told how he remonstrated with the driver of a flat back truck in a street near his home being used to collect ‘scrap’ metal.

Hyndburn MP Graham Jones said back alleys and streets in Accrington were becoming plagued with ‘kleptomaniac’ metal collectors.

He said trucks laden with metal were a common sight in Accrington in spite of the fact no companies were registered in the area.

Mr Jones said the yard of his own Accrington property had been targeted by scrap metal collectors without his permission.

The MP said he also received a barrage of abuse when he stopped a flatbed truck in the town and asked if the driver was registered.

He said: “I know that residents have lost radiators, microwaves, washing machines, garage doors and a number of other items in recent times – myself included.

“Too often we see flat back trucks with a driver and an accomplice standing on the back looking over the back alley, climbing in and stealing from people’s yards. In some cases they have raided sheds, robbed any metal they can lay their hands on leaving the yard doors open to anyone to enter.

“At my grandmother’s house, which is currently empty, people are frequently caught around the back.

“I recently stopped a flat back truck collecting metal and asked to see his waste carriers licence and Hyndburn registration number. In return I got a volley of arrogant profanity before he raced off shouting out of the window.

“This was an indication of unprofessionalism at best, disregard for the law and other people’s property at worst.”

Mr Jones said he welcomes new plans for police to stop and check vehicles after he raised the problem with officers. He said he also welcomes new powers which will come into effect in October.”

He said: “These vans flagrantly operate outside the law. They hound our neighborhoods and act with impunity. Having led the campaign to change the law I have subsequently worked with the police and Hyndburn Council to strengthen the position and to take a tougher approach to rogue collectors.”

Currently two of the six new parts of the law have come into force with stiffer sentences and a ban on cash payments.

Powers which come into force in October will see greater powers for magistrates and police, a local authority licensing scheme. Collectors will also have to display a council licence plate on vehicles and the public will be also be able to request to see registration papers.