Police are seeing a rise in the reported theft of old Yorkstone paving flagstones across the Waverley area. Property owners have returned to discover that their patios or driveways have been dug up. With the high value of reclaimed materials and the difficulty in tracing these items this form of theft has been on the rise. In most cases the flagstones are not cemented into the ground.
Due to the weight of the stones, a large van or trailer is used and two or more persons will be involved. There is usually a recce of the location before the theft occurs.
Should you have these types of stone then please report anything suspicious to police on 101. Use PIR outdoor lighting and make it difficult for the stones to be removed. Make the patio area difficult to access by placing hostile planting or other objects in the way.
Police would also like to speak to anyone who is offered second-hand paving slabs.
Locations targeted: Very rural, large country properties including heritage sites.
Wonersh, Farnham, Churt, Frensham, Peper Harow.
Anyone with information should contact Surrey Police by calling 101 or reporting it online and quote the reference number 45160089533