A NUMBER of churches across Mid Sussex have been victims of metal theft.

The churches targeted include Holy Trinity at Cuckfield, All Saints at Bolney and St Saviour in Colgate.

Churches are advised to be particularly vigilant at the moment but this has affected churches across the whole of Sussex over the past year.

An entire lead roof was stolen from a church in Bedfordshire by thieves posing as contractors who seem to have stolen the lead over a prolonged period.

A church Diocese spokesman has offered this advice to churches: “We are very concerned that more churches may be targeted and would like to urge parishes to take to implement the following advice:

“Talk to your congregation and neighbours.

“Please talk to your congregation members and neighbours about the ongoing issues with crime and metal theft affecting churches and encourage them to look out for suspicious activity around the church building and report any concerns to Sussex Police by calling 101.

“Please let your congregation and neighbours know when works are taking place at the church.

“Encourage them to call the churchwardens or clergy if people dressed like contractors appear at the church when they are not expected .

“Report ALL crimes affecting churches as soon as possible

“Crimes against churches may be classed as heritage crime, hate crime, and/or criminal damage and are taken very seriously by Sussex Police.

“If you see someone committing a crime, please call 999 immediately.

“Please notify every incident to DAC team (01273 425 690) , Sussex Police (999 or 101) and Ecclesiastical Insurance (0345 777 3322) so a clear picture is presented and we can all work together.

“Protect against metal theft

“Your church policy provides cover for metal theft, and subsequent damage, as long as you have taken the following steps:

•Applied a forensic marking system approved by us (such as SmartWater) to external metal.

• Registered the marking system with the provider, please note that if you purchase SmartWater quoting Ecclesiastical we will register the system for you.

• Clearly displayed signage of the marking system to deter thieves.

“You may also be able to benefit from increased cover if you install a roof alarm.”