Arrests after Five Weirs Walk thefts

Over the last six months the Five Weirs Walk, a pathway beside the River Don, has been plagued with a succession of thefts of stainless steel wire and handrails from three bridges.

The Cobweb, Bailey and Little Cobweb bridges have all had stainless steel removed from them - including vital safety rails.

Now police have arrested two separate groups in connection with thefts.

Insp Darren Nugent, from the City Centre Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “The arrests of these individuals is an excellent result, and we urge the public to continue reporting suspicious activity on the bridges.”

Coun Tim Rippon, cabinet member for economic regeneration, culture and planning at Sheffield Council, said: “It was so disheartening when the thefts occurred. Everyone at the council, Five Weirs Trust and other partner organisations have worked so hard to restore the walk and make it what it is today.”

One group of suspects was arrested after trying to sell stolen metal to a scrap dealer.