Concerned Whaplode resident fears nails scattered deliberately on roads could potentially cause a death with some carrying magnets in their cars to avoid damage

Frightened residents have resorted to taking magnets out with them to collect up nails deliberately left in village roads — and fear someone could die if the menace doesn’t end soon.

Nails and screws were first reported as having been scattered on Hagbeach Gate and Crowdyke Gate in Whaplode last August, causing damage to villagers’ car tyres. Now, incidents have stepped up and the blight has become a daily occurrence this month.

Lincolnshire Police have confirmed that a 41-year-old woman was arrested on July 2 this year on suspicion of causing danger to road users and a charging decision is pending from the Crown Prosecution Service as the authorities weigh up what course of action to take.

However, a resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, is worried that the incidents - which have gathered pace with nails being placed two to three times a day every day - could cause a death on the road.

He said: “All it needs is someone to get one in the tyre, have a blow out and it could be a life.

“Everybody is just afraid to go out and do things as they are worried about tyres and property.

“People by themselves have got to clear them out and unless there is going to be a prosecution it is not going to stop so hopefully there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Residents have taken to carrying magnets in their cars to collect up the nails to avoid a puncture and it is affecting elderly residents in the village.

The first incident happened on August 4 and the second on September 4 and car drivers have had to replace damaged tyres.

Residents with dogs were also worried that it could cause injury to their pets as they took them out for walks.

A police spokesperson said: “We are aware of the ongoing incidents and our investigations remain ongoing, in addition to regular patrols of the area.”

Crimes can be reported by dialling 101.

What do you think? Post your comments below…