Drain covers are still going missing in Brent despite council efforts to stop thieves cashing in on the rising cost of scrap metal.

Ten grates went missing from the streets of Kingsbury last week, bringing the latest theft count to 110 and costing tax payers around £35,000 .

Councillor Daniel Brown, responsible for highways and transportation, said: "The council has already contacted scrap metal yards about the issue and we will be taking a hard line with the theives responsible.

"I am concerned that people may injure themselves because of these holes. The metal grates are also costly to replace and a waste of taxpayers'money."

People have been urged to call the council if they spot drain holes being uncovered or see people working on the road without any official markings on vehicles or clothes.

Residents can also contact their Metropolitan Police Safer Neighbourhood Team online at www.met.police.uk/brent  or via the police switchboard on 020 8937 5050.