A 15-inch figure of Jesus that had been stolen has been discovered abandoned in a country lane.

The model had been stolen with those of Joseph and a sheep from a nativity scene outside All Saints Church in All Saints Lane, Sidley, near Bexhill, at 6pm on Wednesday.

Father Trevor Buxton confronted a gang of three youths as they attempted to flee with their religious loot and managed to seize back Joseph and the sheep.

Yesterday Fr Trevor was happy to confirm Jesus - made of hardboard, flat in the shape of an infant and painted bright red, yellow and blue - was found safe and well in Watermill Lane on the outskirts of Sidley.

He said he believed Jesus would forgive the culprits.