The Midland Metro is offering a £500 reward to anyone who can help identify thieves who have stolen around £5,000 worth of equipment in the Wednesbury area over the last two weeks.

Services around Wednesbury have been disrupted as a result of the thefts and further disruption is expected as the vital kit is replaced.

Trackside electrical equipment was removed from the area immediately north of Wednesbury Parkway tram stop last week and earlier this week. National Express, who operates the Midland Metro line, is offering a £500 reward to anyone who can provide information leading to the identification, arrest and prosecution of the culprits.

Fred Roberts, Midland Metro Manager, said: "Over the past two weeks the Midland Metro has been targeted by vandals who've taken around £5,000 of specialist electrical equipment. This pointless theft is very concerning to us and completely unfair on passengers who face delays and disruption as a result. We're working with the British Transport Police to identify the culprits and are also offering a £500 reward to anyone who can provide further information leading to a prosecution."

British Transport Police are following up the incidents of theft and are closely monitoring the tram CCTV system. A spokesperson for British Transport Police, said: "We are working with the Midland Metro to identify those responsible for the theft. We are also talking to local scrap yard owners who might be offered the kit.

"Technological and forensic advances are making life more and more difficult for railway thieves and are increasing the opportunities for us to detect criminals. With electricity constantly running through the track anyone who steals equipment from the Metro is not only risking a prison sentence, they are also risking their lives."

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