Police issued a warning yesterday to the “reckless” vandals behind a potentially deadly stunt in Fakenham.Insulation tape and string were stretched across the carriageway at both Wells Road and Queens Road overnight on Tuesday and Wednesday of last week.

By Laura Devlin

Police have issued a warning to the “reckless” vandals behind a potentially deadly stunt in Fakenham.

Insulation tape and string were stretched across the carriageway at both Wells Road and Queens Road overnight on Tuesday and Wednesday of last week.

The prank could have resulted in serious injury, particularly to a cyclist or motorcyclist - and the consequences for those responsible would also be severe.

When asked why the warning had not been released earlier, a police press officer said the crime had not been flagged up with the media because it had not come to their attention until Monday.

Police will be targeting their patrols in the area over the coming weeks and are keen to hear from anyone who may have information about those behind the incidents.

Sgt Tony Toynton said: “This is a very dangerous prank with potentially fatal consequences. Those responsible need to be aware of the seriousness of this offence and the repercussions that could follow as a result of their foolish behaviour.

“The danger to cyclists and motor-cyclists is particularly concerning, especially given that these incidents have occurred overnight when it would be very difficult to see the tape and string until it is too late to avoid them. We will be stepping up our patrols in the area in a bid to prevent further similar incidents and to find those responsible.”