Lead stolen from roof of All Saints Church in Hartest

Lead has been stolen from the roof of a village church.

The lead was taken from All Saints Church, in Lawshall Road, Hartest, at some point between Monday, October 14 and Wednesday, October 16.

Police are urging residents to stay alert to suspicious activity around churches as they have also received about three reports of thefts from offertory boxes in the surrounding area recently, targeting rural churches in remote locations.

Sgt Brian Calver, from the Rural Crime team, said: "As well as causing a great deal of disruption for the church membership, these crimes are also against our heritage, with no regards for the damage caused or loss of cultural heritage as a result of their actions.

"If you suspect that there are offenders on site, dial 999 as this is a crime in progress and the losses can and do amount to tens of thousands of pounds.

"Do not approach or disturb the offenders, as by reporting and observing discreetly, it will allow police officers the chance to get to the scene and apprehend those involved."

Anyone with knowledge should contact police, quoting crime reference 37/63077/19

Visit www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us/existing-report-update