Police in Newcastle are appealing for information after a six-foot high crucifix was stolen from outside a church.
The life size bronze statue was taken overnight from All Saints Gosforth.
It's been on display since 1965.
Rev Canon Andrew Shipton, from the church, said: "The crucifix was situated in a consecrated area where many ashes are buried. It was a great shock to find that it had gone and a cause of considerable sadness."
The crucifix was stolen sometime overnight between Wednesday 12 May and Thursday 13 May.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Andrew on 0191 284 5540 or Northumbria Police on 101.
