THIEVES who have swiped more than 25 road signs - some them vital for public safety - were last night labelled “irresponsible” by the police.

Laurence Cawley

THIEVES who have swiped more than 25 road signs - some them vital for public safety - were last night labelled “irresponsible” by the police.

In the past few days Suffolk police has received 27 reports of road signs being stolen.

Areas affected include Drinkstone and Rattlesden though it is understood similar incidents have taken place in Rougham, Great Barton and other villages near Bury St Edmunds.

Police say some of the signs were placed in rural roads to indicate diversion routes and the force now fears the thefts could lead to large HGVs trundling down inappropriate country lanes, putting the public and other road users at risk.

A spokeswoman for the police said: “The theft of these signs is irresponsible, they were placed on these rural roads to indicate diversions and their removal will have led to much frustration for drivers.

“In addition, any larger vehicles using these routes would have potentially ended up on unsuitable country lanes, putting themselves and other road users at risk.

“Anyone with any information about these thefts should contact Sgt Colin Curtis at the Mid Suffolk South Safer Neighbourhood Team on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."