THIEVES have been accused of "stealing a town's heritage" after a series of raids of valuable stone edifices in Colne.

Police are investigating a number of thefts of stone mountings, from the top of gate posts, along Langroyd Road in the past week.

The stone mountings, which come in a variety of different styles, can be worth up to £1,000 or more, as many were erected at the same time as the original 19th and early 20th century homes there.

Sgt John Fryer, of Colne police, said: "We believe that this might be linked to similar incidents in North Yorkshire. And we also had a number of similar thefts in Earby recently as well.

"The stones can be worth around £1,000 because many of them are carved and castellated and quite old."

Police believe that thieves must be coming equipped with their own transport, as a van would be required.

Sgt Fryer added: "They are stealing the town's heritage basically - these stones are probably a couple of hundred years old."

Five such incidents have been reported on Langroyd Road, at separate addresses.

And a number of older homes on Keighley Road have been targeted for the same reason in recent weeks.

Police are now asking residents that if they spot any suspicious activity, especially involving vans, to alert the Colne station.

Sgt Fryer added: "We would rather investigate a couple of false alarms then let people get away with this."

The stone mountings are being stolen to order, it is believed, because of their high value and historical value.

Rogue salvage merchants could be taking delivery of the stones, sandblasting or restoring them, before selling them on to unsuspecting customers, police said.

People who spot any suspicious activity, in the Langroyd Road, Keighley Road or similar areas, are asked to contact Colne police on 01282 425001.