Lead thieves leave Claverley church a £15,000 bill
A church in Shropshire has become the latest victim of metal theft after £20,000 worth of lead was stolen from its roof.
The lead was taken from the north aisle of All Saints Church in Claverley, near Bridgnorth.
Rev Garry Ward said the impact on the church could be huge as the insurance would only pay out £5,000 – leaving a deficit of £15,000.
He said: "This is the first time the lead has been taken from Claverley. A van or lorry drove up the drive on Saturday, to the rear of the church, and ladders were put up.
"We have temporarily blocked the drive and are having anti-ram bollards put up this week to prevent vehicles getting to the church.
"We are also having a roof alarm fitted in the next few days.
"The impact on the church is huge because we have lost around £20,000 worth of lead and the insurance will only pay a maximum of £5,000.
"This is due to the huge amount of claims that have been made all over the country in the last couple of years due to metal theft."
Rev Ward said the church had also suffered a significant amount of water damage after heavy rain fell early Saturday morning.
He said: "We have just had the parquet floor polished and it is now soaked and badly stained. Some valuable fabrics have also been water damaged.
"We are already running at a £15,000 deficit this year so any donations towards the roof repair would be gratefully received."
Police have issued an appeal for witnesses to contact Bridgnorth Police Station on 0300 3333000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
To donate the roof appeal, call Rev Ward on (01746) 710304.
