The rector of one of England's most historic churches says the community is "deeply shocked" after burglars stole £90,000 worth of religious artefacts.

The items stolen from Sherborne Abbey in Dorset included a processional cross and a bishop's crook. There is no CCTV footage of the break-in which police believe occurred between 9pm and 1am on Tuesday.

The thieves also caused damage to an ancient Saxon door as they tried to gain entry to the 1300 year old building.

Rev Martin Lee told The Telegraph: “The abbey is part of our history and our heritage. A lot of people are very angry and upset about this. It is a desecration of the abbey as well as the wider community. This is an extremely sad day for the abbey and indeed for our community.

“We are deeply shocked by this crime and now must work hard to deal with the consequences and support all those in our community who are affected by this act of desecration to our beautiful abbey.”

PCSO Mark Jones, of Dorset Police said: “Sherborne Abbey is a historic landmark of significant cultural value to not just the town but the whole county and we are carrying out enquiries into this burglary to identify those responsible.

“We are keen to trace the movement of the offenders in the areas of Hospital Lane, Abbey Road, Church Lane and Half Moon Street so I would ask local residents to please check their home CCTV and doorbell cameras to see if they have captured anything of relevance.

“I would also urge any motorists driving in the area at the time of the offence to please review their dashcams to see if they have captured any footage which may aid our investigation.”

The Diocese of Salisbury said the incident had been "deeply upsetting for the community, who have lost items of value to both the town and the abbey.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the community at this distressing time," it said. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101.