More than 150 grates have been stolen from various locations during the recent spate of thefts in the east of the county, including Netherfield, Penhurst, Brightling, Dallington, Winchelsea, Ashburnham, Ninfield, Catsfield, Sedlescombe and Mountfield.

The exposed chamber holes are approximately 300mm by 450mm and can be up to one metre in depth.

There are fears the exposed chambers could cause serious accidents if a pedestrian or cyclist were to fall into them or if they were to cause motorists to lose control of their car or motorcycle.

The thefts took place throughout April and the last known theft happened on Wednesday April 30.

The heavy metal grates rest in a metal frame in the ground and are removable to allow easy access for gully cleaning.

But as a result of the thefts, East Sussex County Council is looking at other possible designs for some of the affected sites.

The Highways Authority is working to make the grates safe and replace them as soon as possible.

But the thefts are going to hit the taxpayer as each grate costs up to £300 to replace and the demand on manpower and resources mean that other roadworks may be delayed.

Councillor Matthew Lock, lead cabinet member for transport and environment, said: "These thieves are not only stealing public property and delaying much needed work on the roads, but are putting the public in danger.

"I would urge anyone who has any information that may help catch these vandals to call East Sussex Highways or Sussex Police."

Highways is contacting scrap metal dealers and asking them to report anyone attempting to sell the grates and are urging members of the public to be aware of the potential danger of open drainage holes.

Anyone wishing to report a missing grate or someone acting suspiciously should contact East Sussex Highways on 0845 60 80 193 or Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999.