Fury as thieves rip roof of historic UK town church – ‘a new low’

Thieves stole lead from the porch roof of St Peter’s Church in Staines-upon-Thames, damaging the 132-year-old building and leaving it in need of repairs costing thousands of pounds. Residents are raising money to help pay for the work, while a local councillor called the theft “a new low” and said the community was being let down over crime.

Surrey Police have identified a suspect, who remains at large, and are appealing for information as their investigation continues. Borough Inspector Matthew Walton said reported crime in the area had fallen by 6% and police were solving 17% of reported crimes; he urged residents to report incidents.