They have reported that more than 2,000 vehicles were noted through the ANPR system, with 36 stopped and thoroughly inspected, including checks for Smartwater.

Police said nine vehicles were reported for having no Environment Agency waste carrying licence and three dealt with by Customs and Excise for red diesel offences. Nine vehicles were found to have defects and three vehicles were seized for having no insurance.

Two people were arrested for theft of lead and 12 scrap metal dealers visited in the raid, which also saw police call on many previous offenders and develop "significant intelligence".

The operation named "Ferrous" concentrated on gathering intelligence, identifying and eliminating disposal locations, disrupting activities relating to the theft and disposal of metals and the detection of crime.

Insp. Ian Cooper, from Colne Police, said: "The day was a tremendous success for all the agencies involved. It is not a one off though – these 'impact days' will continue as will stop checks 24 hours a day by Pendle Police officers as part of their daily business to target those involved in the theft of metal."