MOTORISTS in Heysham are being warned to be on their guard after a spate of petrol thefts in the town.

Drivers have got into their cars and found they will not start after fuel pipes have been cut.

Police have now issued an alert and appealed for people to report any suspicious activity.

"There have been a few similar incidents and we want to know about any others," says Sgt Steve Anderton. "People seem to be cutting the pipe to siphon the fuel off and this is not only theft it is very dangerous as well.

"It could only take one lit ciga-ette end to start a fire if any petrol is spilled and it is also a great annoyance to drivers.

"If anyone sees someone acting suspiciously near a car I would ask them to contact police, and likewise, if someone has suffered damage to their vehicle I would also advise them to contact us."

Call the Crimestoppers hotline on 0800-555111.