An anonymous tip-off has led to the arrest of a 35-year-old man after police found a large amount of suspected stone roof tiles at his home.

The man, from the West Bowling area, has since been released on bail as inquiries are continue.

Sergeant Tom Casey, of the Horton Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This type of crime can leave victims distressed and upset and unable to fund the high cost of replacement of paths and walls.

“Stone is heavy and often requires the use of a vehicle to commit the theft. Recent arrests have also involved the thieves using wheelie bins and hand carts to move the stone around.

“I am appealing appeal for the public to remain vigilant and encourage them to contact us if they see anything suspicious. I am particularly interested in information relating to builder’s yards or other premises that maybe receiving stolen stone. Stone can be difficult to identify and I ask that owners consider photographing their stone in situ as this may help with identification of the stone should you become a victim of this crime.”

On Sunday, August 18, police arrested three men aged 20, 19 and 13 years in the Canterbury area in possession of suspected stolen stone. Anyone with information should call 111 or Great Little Horton Neighbour-hood Police Team on 101.