Police Forces can no longer be expected to tackle one of the UK's most prolific, damaging and fastest growing crimes in isolation, chief officers have emphasised.

Speaking during a national day of action against metal theft, DCC Paul Crowther, who heads up the ACPO Metal Theft Working Group, said he hoped the initiative would send a clear message that decisive action will collectively be taken against offenders.

He added: "The police, partner agencies and many industries recognise the threat posed by metal thieves and have been working together to develop ways of addressing the problem.

"We can no longer operate in isolation, dealing with the crime only as it affects our own area of expertise. We have joined together to send a clear message to prospective thieves that should they will be tracked down and brought to justice."

DCC Crowther said metal theft crimes had increased dramatically over the six months with copper, lead and other materials being stolen more than ever before.

Railway cabling, lead on church roofs and even manhole covers have been targeted.

He pointed out that police officers were working closely with the British Metal Recycling Association (BRMA) to educate the scrap metal dealers and metal recyclers who are often the first port of call for thieves looking to cash in.

Sgt Chris Hearn, of BTP, who has been involved in countering metal theft for several years, said: "Often these dealers are unaware that the metal is stolen and can find themselves out of pocket when checks carried out by police result in the material being seized.

"BTP, other forces, agencies and industries have been out to almost all known scrap dealers to show them exactly what should – and shouldn't – be accepted.

"It is imperative that we continue to work with the BMRA to educate scrap yards, stop them from unwittingly taking in stolen metal and reduce the opportunities for thieves."