The thefts are being investigated by police

Thieves targeting heavy iron drain covers in Swansea are putting motorists and pedestrians at risk of serious injury, a council has warned.

More than 85 have gone missing recently - 23 in the last week - leaving gaping holes in some roads.

At least 10 covers were taken in one day from a section of the Kingsway.

The council has urged road users to beware and report any missing drain or manhole covers to the highways department immediately.

South Wales Police have been alerted.

Swansea council's head of transport Carl Humphrey said: "The theft of these covers is becoming a regular occurrence unfortunately.

"Recently this type of theft has become more prolific and we are concerned that missing drain covers could damage vehicles or even cause an injury to a pedestrian."

To report a missing grate or manhole cover contact the highways department on free phone number 0800 132081.