POLICE investigating metal thefts have this morning carried out a string of co-ordinated raids.

More than 400 police officers have raided six scrap metal dealers in Thames Valley and Middlesex.

Police said the investigation - dubbed Operation Symphony - had been months in the planning and would also target eight associated premises.

In Oxfordshire search teams, detectives and specialist officers are now at yards in Bloxham and Nuneham Courtenay as officers focus on the disposal of stolen metal.

No arrests have yet been made.