THOUSANDS of pounds worth of piping and tools was stolen after thieves forced their way into a shipping container.

The equipment, which is used for the maintenance of trainline power cables, was snatched from the Castle Hill Road area of Hindley.

The shipping container was broken into on Thursday evening, April 18.

Police have issued an appeal for information following the theft.

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In a statement, Greater Manchester Police said: "During the evening of April 18, 2024 entry was forced to a shipping container around the Castle Hill Road area of Hindley from which thousands of pounds worth of copper piping and associated tools for the maintenance of trainline power cables were stolen.

"If anyone has any information regarding this offence please email wiganeast@gmp.police.uk quoting reference CRI/06LL/0010826/24.

"Metal is in use everywhere, on your homes, your businesses and in the community. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity."