Clay items to deter church raids

Items which thieves may target are made of wood or clay

Parish priests in Cambridgeshire have been advised to put replica silverware in churches in a bid to beat raiders.

Burglaries and acts of vandalism in a number of village churches have also persuaded officials to stay alert and keep in contact with each other.

Owen Spencer-Thomas from Ely Diocese says Communion silver and artifacts have little monetary value.

"Priests and vicars are now encouraged to replace items thieves think valuable with wood and clay replicas."

Recent break-ins at churches in the county where chalices, candlesticks and altar items have been taken have put Diocese of Ely officials on high alert.

Some churches are already replacing valuable items like candlesticks and communion chalices with replicas made of wood or clay Owen Spencer-Thomas

Owen Spencer-Thomas said: "It is the role of church wardens to keep a look out and our churches are joining forces to try to deter burglars who cost them thousands of pounds every year.

"The most recent church break-ins have occurred at Godmanchester, Hartford, Papworth Everard, Colne and Longstanton.

"All Saints at Longstanton has been closed for a year because the ceiling is unsafe and the cost of the damage caused by the intruders will add £1600 to the amount which needs to be raised to carry out repairs.

"Some churches are already replacing valuable items like candlesticks and communion chalices with replicas made of wood or clay.

"Thieves think they can sell artefacts for a lot of money but they are easily identifiable and also are mostly just of sentimental value."