Michael Strother claims that since taking over as landlord of Junction Mills in Whingate last August his premises have had at least a dozen raids.

The Victorian mill has a three storey section which is under demolition, a two storey part occupied by four tenants and several single storey blocks housing seven further tenants.

The burglars are so determined to get into the complex they are scaling walls and gates, climbing on to roofs to remove tiles and smashing windows and doors.

In the latest attack on March 25/26 four separate units were targeted.

They smashed a rear entrance to the premises occupied by builder Kenneth Priestley stealing tools and materials.

The gang also got into the unit occupied by Exclusive Trade Windows by climbing scaffolding, breaking an upstairs window and climbing through. They then stolen valuable tools and computers.

The raiders failed to gain entry to the Wool Shop despite removing and smashing roof slates. They also removed roof slates at the premises of Allied Machines, a business selling woodworking machines operated by Mr Strother himself.

Just four days earlier the front door of an empty unit was smashed open. Nine days earlier on March 13, the store used by electrician Barry Sucksmith was broken into and a quantity of expensive copper cabling was stolen.

Earlier in March hairdressing shop and salon, Bluer, had its rear door broken off and though it is believed nothing was stolen the entire contents of the premises were disturbed.

"We have had at least a dozen break-ins or attempted burglaries since we took over as landlords," said Mr Strother.
"Just the day after we moved in on August 15 new lead which had been used to repair the roof was pinched."

Det Insp Simon Atkinson of Pudsey-Weetwood CID, said: "I assure people we treat every report of a burglary as a serious matter and we want to do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice.

"I have spoken with senior members of the Neighbourhood Policing Team to see whether more resources can be put into the area and they will be in contact with Mr Strother regarding this matter."