08 June 2008

Church Vandalism

The Rector and Churchwardens of St Mary The Virgin, Bottesford, today issued the following statement.
 
SECURITY MEASURES
 
1    As a result of the increase in thefts of items from churches in this area (lead, crosses, metals etc.) we regrettably have to close the church outside office hours: Monday – Thursday 09.00 – 2.30pm. When possible, the church will be opened beyond these hours.
 
2    Each evening the gates from Rectory Lane over Fleming Bridge will be locked to deter vehicular access. However, access can be gained via the 3 kissing gates, situated adjacent to the entrances to the graveyard.
 
3    Measures have been taken to treat our lead roof with SMARTWATER – forensic coding system that enables thieves to be identified and lead to be traced back to owners.
 
4    If, for devotional purposes, you wish to visit the church outside of these hours please ring 01949 842859 or 01949 843615.
 
 
Please pass this information to your friends and neighbours who may not receive our e-mails
 
Brian Kelk Principal Coordinator Bottesford Parish Neighbourhood Watch Tel: 01949 842241     Mob: 07803 869843

Vandalism of Church

Croxton Kerrial NHW has reported that the roof of Croxton Kerrial Church was vandalised during the night 2 - 3 June.  Fortunately no lead was taken this time, but the recent ongoing repairs have been set back.  The police have been informed.
 
Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police on 0116 222 2222
 
Brian Kelk Principal Coordinator Bottesford Parish Neighbourhood Watch Tel: 01949 842241     Mob: 07803 869843 

Theft from Churches

Good afternoon from pcso Mark Barr,overnight on June 4th a church was broken into in the Main st area of Woolsthorpe by Belvoir & items were stolen.If you have any information please contact grantham police on 01476 402222 quoting incident number 100 June 5th,thank you.

Theft from Churches

Saltby Church is the latest church to have reported the theft of articles.  The theft was probably carried out on Thursday night or Friday morning (5/6 June).  Churches are advised to remove all valuable items (particularly metal ones) or keep the church locked when not occupied.  It has been pointed out that metal plaques, which may illustrate the history the church or parish, are also being stolen from church walls.
 
Members of the public are asked to be particularly vigilant for suspicious activity around churches and to report such incidents immediately to Leicestershire Constabulary on 0116 222 2222, and then to the Church.
 
Brian Kelk
Principal Coordinator
Bottesford Parish Neighbourhood Watch
Tel: 01949 842241     Mob: 07803 869843