A church in Devon has been left distressed after thieves ripped a collection box from its ancient stone wall and made off with up to £100 in donations.
The theft took place outside St Werburgh Church, a 600-year-old Grade I listed building overlooking Wembury Beach, sometime between Sunday and Monday, as reported by the BBC.
The box, used to collect parking donations, was forcibly removed, causing damage to the church’s historic stonework.
Churchwarden Sue Lord said: “We feel quite upset about it. Every penny that the church can get means a lot to us. Churches are struggling, so any money is quite important to us.”
It’s the second time in a year the church has been targeted. Previously, the box was broken into but left behind; this time, it was completely stolen.
Devon and Cornwall Police are appealing for any information related to the theft.