Thefts of lead from the roofs of public buildings such as churches, schools and local authority properties has become a serious problem over the last year.

With prices for scrap metal riding high because of global demand for metal to use in industry, some people think this is an easy way to make quick money.

It’s a dangerous way to make cash, although few people would have much sympathy for any thief who came a cropper while scaling great heights to steal lead from roofs.

The more socially-disruptive result of this crimewave is the damage that is often caused to the thieves’ targets – which often far outstrips the actual value of the lead they steal.

A case in point is the recent attack on Keighley’s Cliffe Castle museum, which has been forced to close until February while workmen put right the damage to the roof due to lead thefts.

As a result of that, Bradford Council is now having to spend tens of thousands of pounds on CCTV systems to be installed on prominent buildings.

At a time when the Council is having to tighten its belt as never before and vital services are in the firing line, it’s sad that such expenditure has to be made because of the actions of a selfish few.

But let’s hope that the cameras at least provide a deterrent – and help bring those thieves causing all this bother to book.