A crucifix and an oil painting were among the items stolen during two church burglaries in north Essex.

East Anglian Daily Times: Brass jug from All Saints Church in Middleton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICEBrass jug from All Saints Church in Middleton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE (Image: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE)

Police are appealing for help to find the objects taken from All Saints Church, in Middleton, and St Andrews Church, Abberton.

A coat of arms statue, brass book rests and brass jugs were also stolen during the burglaries on March 13 and March 29.

A spokeswoman for Essex Police said the items were believed to have been sold at North Weald Market.

She added: “These items are of sentimental value of the both church communities.”

East Anglian Daily Times: An oil painting stolen from St Andews Church in Abberton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICEAn oil painting stolen from St Andews Church in Abberton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE (Image: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE)

Anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Jack Morgan at Braintree Police Station on 101 quoting crime reference 42/43727/18 for St Andrews Church or 42/35647/18 for All Saints Church.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

East Anglian Daily Times: Crucifix taken from St Andrews Church in Abberton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICECrucifix taken from St Andrews Church in Abberton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE (Image: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE)

East Anglian Daily Times: Brass book rest from All Saints Church in Middleton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICEBrass book rest from All Saints Church in Middleton. Picture: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE (Image: SUPPLIED BY ESSEX POLICE)