Thieves in Milton Keynes made off with only a small amount of cash after breaking into a local church, but left the congregation facing a substantial repair bill.

St James Church in Hanslope had its stained-glass window smashed to gain entry on the evening of 3rd August. The culprits pulled out a donation box—bolted to the floor—casting it aside for a second box, which is thought to have contained less than one hundred pounds.

Vicar Fr Gary Ecclestone told local radio station MKFM: “I fear our thieves will be disappointed that their efforts will have yielded in all likelihood tens rather than hundreds of pounds, as many people now give electronically, and we empty the boxes frequently!

“I would rather have just given them the cash."

According to the National Churches Trust, on average there are eight crimes a day affecting churches. Repair costs are around 20 per cent higher for listed buildings, due to stringent conservation requirements.

St James is one of the area’s oldest churches. The chancel dates back to the 11th century, with the nave and aisles added in the 12th and 13th centuries. Repairs will require specialist work to the Grade I listed building.

In 2021, vandals used air-gun pellets to damage historic stained glass at St Helen’s Church, Little Cawthorpe, Lincolnshire. The Churches Conservation Trust said it would cost over £4,000 to repair.

Despite the setback, parishioners in Milton Keynes have rallied round to help cover the costs. “Thank you to villagers for their support, and for generous donations too; those received this week have covered the insurance excess,” Fr Ecclestone added.

No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.