RAIDERS have stripped thousands of pounds worth of lead from the roof of South Hams Council's Follaton House in Totnes — striking twice in less than a week.

In the latest attack, the thieves climbed some 40ft up onto the roof of the historic mansion house building before ripping out yards of lead worth at least £1,000.

Only a few days earlier they struck at the rear of the 180-year-old former stately home stripping lead from a single story section of the complex and taking yet more from the front entrance of the council chamber entrance.

In the Wednesday night raid the thieves also stole a £6,000 council-owned exhibition trailer which had been parked in the headquarters' car park.

Now South Hams Council is looking at tightening up security at the council complex — which could include a restriction on what vehicles are allowed on to the site.

The council is appealing for anybody who may spot the stolen exhibition trailer which is distinctive with its blue and green Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty logo.

Luckily, the thefts were discovered before any serious rainfall compounded the damage left by the thieves.

However, council tax payers are now faced with footing the bill for the lost lead and repairing the damage the raiders left behind.

Alan Robinson, strategic director (community) of the council, said: "The theft of lead from Follaton House, which is a Grade II-listed building, has created a great deal of damage and money will now have to be spent on repairs.

"This is so unfortunate in this financial climate where we are working hard to cut costs and save the tax payer money.

"In addition to spending funds on repairs to the building we will have to explore the costs of providing extra security measures.

"Unfortunately, this may mean vehicle access to the site will be restricted — the actions of a few will now affect enjoyment of the site by the general public.

"We are asking the public to help the police if they noticed anything unusual around Follaton while walking dogs in the grounds recently or if, while travelling around the South Hams they see the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) trailer, which is used for shows and exhibitions promoting our area, which was also stolen last night."