Metal handrails for OAPs stolen from Blackburn street (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Metal handrails for OAPs stolen from Blackburn street

8:00pm Wednesday 14th November 2012 in Blackburn By Simone Yates

A MAN has branded scrap metal thieves as ‘mindless’ following thefts near his home in Blackburn.

Metal handrails have been taken from homes that provide accommodation for the elderly, and disabled, in Wimberley Street.

William Bullcock, 53, has lived in the area for more than ten years, and said that metal thieves in the town had reached an all-time low.

He said: “This is the lowest of the low. Taking poles that could save an old person from falling for just a few quid is just terrible.

“The thing is these handrails are heavy and cost around £250 to make, but for scrap they would be worth just £5.”

Along with the rails, Mr Bullcock said that metal poles have been taken from the residential area, and has urged local councillors to help reduce metal thefts.

“The nights are becoming darker and the leaves tend to be slippery on the steps. Along with my neighbours, I have had to help a few pensioners.

“I don’t understand how these mindless thieves get away with it. They should have been arrested.”

Local councillors have raised concerns over safety as the weather is expected to change.

Coun Suleman Khonat said: “This is disgraceful. I am concerned that people would take a rail that is going to help out old people, I will be looking into this to ensure we catch the criminals who did this and ensure the rails are replaced before the weather changes.”

Comments are closed on this article.