A lectern worth thousands of pounds has been stolen from a church near Deal in Kent.

On Monday morning at St John's Church in Kingsdown, Kent police were informed that the robbery had taken place and the lectern in a shape of a bird had been stolen.

Officers investigating the burglary are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

The thieves also damaged the door to St John the Evangelist and members of the church have taken to Facebook to voice their concerns.

One member wrote: "I heard that our beautiful church was broken into on Sunday night and this beautiful eagle lectern was stolen, especially as I was there just before the caretaker locked up.

Another wrote: "How can people stoop so low and steal from a Church? "Do hope the statue turns up intact."

Premier Christian News has approached Kingsdown Church for comment.