Bracknell

Thames Valley Police is appealing for witnesses after copper panels were stolen from a church roof in Bracknell.

Between 9pm on 3 February and 8am on 4 February, thieves stole several copper panels from the roof of St Margaret Clitherow Roman Catholic Church in Ringmead, Hanworth, Bracknell.

Copper sheeting has been stolen from the Bracknell church roof on five previous occasions since May 2009.

PC Steve Mitchell, Bracknell neighbourhood officer for Birch Hill and Hanworth, said: “The thefts have resulted in considerable damage to the roof and water is now leaking inside the building. This has caused difficulties in using the church for services.

“The parishioners, many of whom are elderly, are naturally very upset by the damage and disruption.

“I am appealing for the community to be vigilant, especially in the hours of darkness, and to report any vehicles seen in the car park or people behaving suspiciously in the area.

“The church is on quite a busy road, so passing motorists may have noticed unusual activity or vehicles parked nearby at night time.”

If you saw anything suspicious, or have any other information about the Bracknell thefts, please contact PC Steve Mitchell on 0845 8 505 505. If you don’t want to speak to police or give your name, please call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell