Churchwarden hits out after a quarter of the lead is stolen from the roof of a Bromsgrove church - The Bromsgrove Standard

Churchwarden hits out after a quarter of the lead is stolen from the roof of a Bromsgrove church

Bromsgrove Editorial 9th Aug, 2018   0

THE CHURCHWARDEN at Catshill parish church has slammed lead thieves who targeted the building three times in a fortnight, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

In total a quarter of the lead has been stolen from the roof of Christ Church on the Stourbridge Road.

Dave Coulson told The Standard: “My fellow churchwarden Pat Hackett was in the chapel and noticed the light coming through.

“When we investigated we found slates had been stolen and others broken.




“On the last occasion they even attacked the windows and knocked out a concrete block on the other side of the church as they have tried to climb up.”

A ladder found leaning against the wall led to the churchwardens thinking the thieves may still be there but but it later transpired the ladder had been taken from a nearby garden.


“I would urge residents to lock away their ladders and tools because thieves and burglars do use them if they are easily accessible.

“We have had nothing like this happening for a few years now but I have since found out at least two more churches in Bromsgrove have recently been targeted, along with others around the county.

“Churches are community buildings and an attack on a church is an attack on the community.”

He said they would not be letting the thieves win and it was business as usual at Christ Church.

The church was insured but it is doubtful that will cover the whole cost.

Mr Coulson appealed for anyone who could donate towards the cost of the repairs to get in touch.

The church is open for the Sunday service at 10am (apart from the fifth Sunday of the month) and between 10am and midday on Tuesdays.

“Please come and enjoy the church and its charms as well,” added Mr Coulson.

Sgt Dave King from Bromsgrove Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) said: “It has had a massive impact on the church and we would urge people living in the area to be vigilant.

“If they see any suspicious behaviour in the area we want them to get in touch.”

Crimes in progress should be reported to 999.

Sgt King also urged any witnesses or anyone with any information on the theft to call officers on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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