THIEVES stole 11 brass taps from the back yards of houses on the same street in Colne.

The thefts meant that residents living in Langroyd Road woke up to find water running into their backyards after the thefts overnight on Tuesday.

Police have increased their patrols in the area and have warned residents to be watchful.

Officers believe the taps were taken to be used as scrap metal or sold and appealed for anyone with information to contact them.

Inspector Phil Davies, who is leading the investigation, said: “Thieves have targeted elderly and vulnerable people who have been left with water running into their backyards overnight.

“We don’t believe these taps to be of particular high value but the incidents are part of a wider trend of metal theft. I appeal to anyone who is aware of brass taps being sold on to contact us.”

As well as increasing patrols in the area officers will visit residents to mark their taps in case any further thefts occur.

Insp Davies said: “We have stepped up patrols in the area and officers will be visiting local residents to mark any brass taps with a special DNA liquid.

“This will help officers reunite any property with its owner should any further thefts occur and I hope this acts as a warning to thieves.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.