The Suffolk Constabulary are calling for communities to act as their “eyes and ears” after lead was stolen from a rural church.

East Anglian Daily Times: Rural churches, like this one in Ickworth, are often targeted by lead thiefs according to Suffolk police Picture: PHIL MORLEYRural churches, like this one in Ickworth, are often targeted by lead thiefs according to Suffolk police Picture: PHIL MORLEY (Image: Archant)

The incident occurred overnight in the hours between Monday September 3 and Tuesday September 4.

• What other theft has recently occurred at a Suffolk church?

Suffolk police are calling on local communities to help prevent the theft of lead from churches following the recent report of the theft in the Mildenhall area.

Rural churches, in particular, are often targeted due to their isolated locations so members of the public are urged to report any suspicious activity they see there.

Stealing a large amount of lead takes time and a reasonably large vehicle to transport it, so any early reports will assist police in locating the offenders.

Sergeant Brian Calver from the rural crime team said: “We are asking local people to take an interest in their local church whilst they are out and about.

“If you take the dog out for a walk, or go for a stroll, don’t ignore anything that you think looks out of place - report anything you think may be suspicious to the police.

“Communities can act as our eyes and ears, and by pulling together to note suspicious activity, we can deter thieves and help keep these historic buildings safe.”

“If a crime is in progress, always call police on 999 and don’t approach the suspects.”

Police work in close partnership with churches to help detect and deter crime, and encourage all to consider the installation of lighting, CCTV and/or roof alarms.

Anybody with information regarding thefts from churches should call police on 101.

Alternatively contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.