Narrow Boat Owners Don’t Have Mushroom

Sorry for the pun but metal theft has now taken to the water.  Narrow boat owners in New Haw in Surrey have been targeted by thieves in a spate of crimes along the River Wey.

Brass ventilation covers, known as mushrooms, have been stolen from the roofs of narrow boats moored on the River Wey.  In four incidents a total of 15 mushrooms were stolen.  Boat owner, Peter Harman from Horsell has his boat moored on the River Wey.  He will have to spend about £250 to replace the stolen mushrooms.  Mr Harman said the brass equipment allowed natural ventilation of the cabin space without being affected by the weather.  He added: “I wanted to let other boat owners know what is happening so they can take precautions and so they don’t have their property removed.”

Crime reduction officer for Runnymede, PC Philip Grant, said: “I would appeal to everyone to keep their eyes peeled when they are close to the River Wey where boats are moored.  There is a close knit community around the river and I would advise people to look out for each other to put a stop to this type of offence”.

If you have information or witnessed these crimes, call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222 quoting reference RM/10/6670.

Acknowledgement: Byfleet, West Byfleet, Pyrford & New Haw News & Mail