Pub discovers lead theft as water leaks into bar

Donnington's The Castle pub is latest victim of metal thieves

LEAD thieves have struck at Donnington's The Castle pub.

The theft was only discovered when it rained on Thursday morning and water began leaking through the roof into the bar.

Licensee Caroline Goatley said: “We don't know exactly when they took it because we only noticed when it rained this morning. It's pretty sickening and it will probably cost a fortune to replace it.

“This is the first time it's happened here, to my knowledge.”

However, lead thieves are known to be operating in the wider area.

On Monday night, police arrested three people following reports that men had been spotted acting suspiciously on a roof in Stockcross.

Police attended immediately and arrested the trio at the scene.

A 26 year-old from Crookham Common was arrested on suspicion of theft and possession of cannabis, and an 18 year-old from Newtown Road, Newbury, and a 21-year-old from Hambridge Road, Newbury were arrested on suspicion of theft.

The three men have been released on police bail pending further enquiries, until June 5, when they are to report back to Newbury police station.

Meanwhile if anyone has any details regarding either incident, they should contact Thames Valley Police on 0845 8 505 505.

Alternatively the Crimestoppers charity can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.