Police are urging people to protect their property to stop thieves stealing metal.

Lead was stolen from the roof of Kingfisher School, in Abingdon, earlier this month and at Matthew Arnold School, in Cumnor, last November.

Crime reduction adviser Roger Foster said: "We don't want these thieves to think they can steal metal from any properties and get away with it.

"These offences are despicable, especially when schools have been targeted.

"If any members of the public see people in suspicious or unusual circumstances carrying out work on roof tops then they could be interfering with lead. Please contact Thames Valley Police and report what you have seen."

Mr Foster said, to help protect property, all outside lights should be in full working order, tools and ladders should be kept out of sight and bins should be kept away from buildings in case thieves climb on them to reach roofs.

Householders and businesses should also make sure all perimeter fencing and gates are secure and security systems are in full working order.

Officers are running Operation Maelstrom across south Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse district, specifically targeting theft of metal, car crime and burglary.