'Significant' amount of lead stolen from church in Preston St Mary

A 'significant' amount of lead was stolen from a church in Preston St Mary last week, as police urged residents to stay vigilant.

The crime happened between Sunday, October 4 and Thursday, October 8 at St Mary's Church.

The lead was stolen from the aisle roof, causing external and internal damage due to rainwater.

Police are asking anyone with information to contact the Crime Coordination Centre, quoting reference: 58840/20.

Sgt Brian Calver, of the Rural Crime Team, had a message for residents.

He said: “With the nights now drawing in and longer hours of darkness upon us, we would urge people to remain vigilant and report and suspicious activity around churches – especially ones with lead assets – as we often see an increase in these offences at this time of year.

"The damage and losses caused by the theft of lead from church roofs often runs into tens of thousands of pounds.

"I would encourage church wardens/custodians to review their security and consider installing an alarm, as these have proven to be a successful deterrent.

"Anyone in need of crime prevention advice can either contact their local Safer Neighbourhood Team, or visit the ‘Advice’ section of our website."

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