A CAR parts manufacturer suffered seven separate power cuts as a result of attacks on the electricity network by metal thieves.

The experience of Nifco, in Eaglescliffe, Teesside, was highlighted by independent charity Crimestoppers which, together with Northern Powergrid, is launching a fresh campaign to highlight the disruption such thefts can cause.

Last year there were 566 incidents of metal theft from Northern Powergrid’s electricity network in the region with thieves targeting valuable copper wire.

Disruptions experienced by Nifco cost up to £10,000 an hour in lost productivity as plant machines, shop floor workers and office staff were plunged into darkness.

Another local business, the Sutton Arms, in Elton, Stockton, had also suffered power cuts due to metal thefts.

Its landlord Alan Flegg said: “Metal thieves have cost us more than £8,500. When the power goes off I have to turn customers away and watch my pub empty.”

Dave Hunter, Crimestoppers regional manager, said: “Alongside Northern Powergrid we are determined to communicate the dangers and disruption caused by theft from the electricity network and help bring down the thieves responsible for these crimes.

“The mass disruption for all affected, be it businesses, communities or households, and the effect this is having on local industry, cannot continue.

“We need members of the public to shed some light on who is responsible for these crimes where they have any information, so that we can prevent you from being left in the dark. We don’t want to know who you are, we only want to know what you know.”

Nigel Walker, of Northern Powergrid, added: “We want local communities to join us and make a stand against the criminals targeting their area.”

Anyone with information about metal thieves can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.