Churches in Oxfordshire are being advised to enhance their security, following a spate of break-ins across the UK.

Specialist church building insurer Ecclesiastical issued the warning, after a surge in thefts.

The insurance company recommended measures such as improving lighting, installing security alarms and CCTV, keeping doors and windows locked when not in use, and reporting any suspicious activity or criminal damage.

Earlier this year, thieves broke into St Mary's Church in Henley, smashing a stained glass window, stealing cash, and cracking open the church's safe.

Elsewhere in the country reports of church-breakins have seen a silver plate, chalices, and an eagle-shaped Victorian lectern being stolen.

A report by Historic England and the National Police Chief’s Council issued earlier this year highlighted the growing risk of theft from historical and heritage sites by opportunistic offenders and organized crime groups, noting that inflation continues to impact the price of commodities.

Helen Richards is church operations director at Ecclesiastical Insurance. She told Oxford Mail: "Theft from church buildings can have a heart breaking impact, both on the volunteers and congregation who give their time to worship at the church and also to the potential loss of heritage.

"There is a real risk the economic challenges in the UK and high value of silver could see an increase in thefts from historical buildings such as churches, so we’re urging churches across the country to take steps to protect themselves and follow our guidance."