The covers were taken from six different areas of the town, leaving wide holes in the ground.

Walsall Council's deputy leader said there is a 'genuine risk of serious injury or worse'.

Councillor Adrian Andrew said: “These actions are appalling and irresponsible. This is theft but with no regard for the consequences.

"There’s a genuine risk of serious injury or worse. I would ask residents to be vigilant and report any incidents to us as a matter of urgency.”

The covers have been taken in Victoria Avenue, Maple Drive, Parkway Estate, Harden Road, Clare Road and Newhome Way.

Anyone who notices missing gulley covers is urged to report it to the council at walsall.gov.uk/report.