Thefts of manhole covers across Surrey have sparked a safety warning to road users.

It is believed that thieves have been stealing the metal covers for their scrap value at a cost to the taxpayer of about £40,000.

Sites where covers are reported missing are made safe as soon as possible but motorists, cyclists and pedestrians have been urged to keep their eyes peeled.

Ian Lake, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for transport, said: "The idiots who are stealing the manhole and drain covers clearly have no regard for people’s safety.

"It’s also galling to be paying out for replacements when that money could be better spent fixing potholes."